Budget reforms to accelerate growth, make Himachal self-reliant: Sukhu

CM Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu outlines Himachal's plan for self-reliance by 2027 through budget reforms. He clarified no fuel price hike, announced transport tax cuts, and discussed amendments to anti-defection and Panchayati Raj laws.

The Chief Minister of Himachal Pradesh, Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu, on Thursday said the state government is committed to making Himachal a self-reliant economy by 2027 and a prosperous state by 2032, asserting that structural reforms initiated during the recently concluded Budget Session would accelerate growth.

Addressing the media on the final day of the Assembly session, Sukhu said the government had ensured constructive debate and incorporated suggestions from the opposition. "We listened to the opposition, but overall the Budget Session was very productive. Several important bills were passed, and the reforms we have initiated will help us move forward," he said.

Economic Vision and Fiscal Management

The Chief Minister said that despite presenting a relatively smaller budget compared to the previous year, there was no financial crisis. "We have curtailed unnecessary expenditure and stopped the misuse of state resources. This is part of a broader 'system correction' process which will strengthen the economy in the long run," he added.

Clarification on Fuel Price Reports

Referring to reports on fuel prices, Sukhu clarified that no increase had been made in petrol or diesel rates in the state. "Some national media outlets wrongly reported that ₹5 had been increased on petrol and diesel. This is incorrect. The Assembly has only taken the legislative power to revise rates up to that limit in the future if required. No such increase has been notified," he said.

Major Legislative and Administrative Reforms

Strengthening Anti-Defection Law

On the recently passed amendment to the anti-defection law, the Chief Minister said the move would strengthen democratic foundations. "If an MLA defects and loses public trust, such a person should not be entitled to pension benefits as a former legislator. This will discourage defection and reinforce accountability," he said, adding that the law is prospective in nature.

Panchayati Raj Reservation Flexibility

On Panchayati Raj amendments, the Chief Minister clarified that a provision allowing up to 5 per cent flexibility in reservation rosters has been introduced to address discrepancies arising from outdated census data. "This is not a mandatory change but an enabling provision to ensure that no section is deprived of representation due to demographic shifts," he said.

Zero Tolerance on Corruption in Himcare

Reiterating his government's "zero tolerance" policy on corruption, Sukhu said strict action would be taken against any wrongdoing in the Himcare health scheme. "There have been multiple irregular cases, not just one. We are conducting a thorough inquiry, and whoever is found guilty will face action," he said, rejecting attempts by Leader of Opposition Jai Ram Thakur to justify certain procedures.

Sector-Specific Initiatives

Tax and Toll Relief for Transport Sector

Sukhu also outlined relief measures announced in the transport and taxation sector. He said light commercial vehicles, including pickups, taxis and three-wheelers registered in Himachal, have been exempted from toll. Rates for sixty-tyre trucks and multi-axle vehicles have been reduced, while the entry tax for passenger vehicles from other states has been cut from ₹130 to ₹100. Residents living within a specified radius of toll barriers, including those from neighbouring states, will be provided concessional passes.

Upgrading Healthcare and Connectivity

Highlighting healthcare reforms, the Chief Minister said the government has invested in advanced medical technologies across the state. "For years, outdated machines were being used. Now we have installed MRI facilities in multiple institutions and are introducing PET scan services in Shimla. This will help in early detection of diseases like cancer and reduce the need for patients to travel outside the state," he said.

He added that the government is also strengthening air connectivity and emergency services, with helicopter services expected to become operational soon.

Overcoming Challenges for a Prosperous Himachal

Sukhu further claimed that financial constraints, including reduced revenue deficit grants and GST compensation, had impacted the state's fiscal space. "Had we received the full dues, Himachal could have moved faster towards becoming debt-free," he said.

Despite these challenges, the Chief Minister expressed confidence that ongoing reforms would transform the state's economy. "We are steadily moving towards self-reliance. The steps taken today will ensure rapid development and place Himachal Pradesh among the leading states in the country in the coming years," he said. (ANI)

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianet Newsable English staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)