Himachal Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister Mukesh Agnihotri stated that the central government is not providing sufficient assistance to the state during a recent event in Shimla. Speaking after the 78th Himachal Day district-level celebration, he expressed concerns regarding the financial constraints faced by the state government.

Agnihotri reported that the discontinuation of the revenue deficit grant and GST compensation has resulted in significant losses for Himachal Pradesh. He estimated these financial losses to be approximately ₹50,000 crore due to the suspension of the Revenue Deficit Grant. Furthermore, natural disasters have exacerbated the state’s economic difficulties, with damages amounting to nearly ₹20,000 crore.

He asserted that despite these challenges, the state government remains committed to developmental initiatives and has reinstated the Old Pension Scheme for employees. Agnihotri also mentioned the need for improved air and rail connectivity in the state, which he believes has not seen adequate attention.

Infrastructure and Tourism Development Initiatives

Agnihotri noted that the Himachal Pradesh government is resorting to loans to enhance infrastructure and promote tourism, particularly focusing on Kangra as a potential tourism capital. He emphasised that while the state was historically reliant on central assistance, it has transformed into a model for development in mountainous regions.

However, he expressed concern over financial issues, stating that the lack of GST compensation and central support has a detrimental effect on the state’s economy. Over the past three years, Himachal Pradesh has incurred losses of around ₹40,000 crore due to natural calamities, even as it has worked diligently to mobilise internal resources for development.

In terms of educational achievements, Agnihotri highlighted that the state has improved its standing from 21st to 5th position nationally. The government now boasts several prestigious institutions, including IITs and medical colleges, and has plans to establish a facility akin to the Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education and Research (PGI) within the state.

Government Welfare Initiatives and Responses to Opposition

The Deputy Chief Minister also provided an overview of the government’s welfare measures, which include social security pensions for nearly one lakh beneficiaries, expansion of water supply schemes, and plans to introduce 1,000 new buses, including electric vehicles, to enhance public transport.

Targeting the Leader of Opposition Jairam Thakur, Agnihotri accused the BJP of promoting instability and misinterpreting the political environment in the state. He asserted that the BJP is mistaken if it believes it will regain power, as the public continues to support the Congress government.

Regarding the recent tragic murder of a 19-year-old girl in Sarkaghat, Mandi district, Agnihotri expressed condolences and assured that strict actions would be taken against the perpetrators. He advised the BJP not to politicise sensitive issues such as these, stating that the Congress administration is actively combating drug abuse.

Women’s Reservation Bill and Party Stance

On the subject of the Women’s Reservation Bill, Agnihotri mentioned ongoing discussions within the Congress party, emphasising that any decision made will adhere to democratic principles. Rajani Patil, in-charge of Congress in Himachal, reinforced the idea that while the party supports women’s reservation, implementing it without proper preliminaries such as delimitation and census is unwise.

By recalling past efforts made for women’s representation, particularly by former Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi and Sonia Gandhi, Patil reiterated the need for thorough preparation before pushing forward. Concerns regarding the timing and effective execution of the bill remain a priority within the party’s discourse.

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