CM Sukhu Meets Sitharaman: Will Himachal Get More Funds?

Shimla(The Uttam Hindu): Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu met Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman in Delhi, requesting a review of the spending limits imposed on externally aided projects. He urged the minister to restore the previous financial status, stating that the restrictions have stalled several projects and affected the state’s economy.

CM Sukhu also sought additional funding from the World Bank under a new financing window, which exceeds the ministry’s current limits. He raised concerns over the reduction in the Revenue Deficit Grant and emphasized that despite efforts to generate more resources, the state still faces financial difficulties for the 2025-26 budget. He requested permission to borrow an additional 2% of Himachal’s Gross State Domestic Product (GSDP) to meet financial needs.

He also highlighted the high costs of infrastructure projects due to the state’s difficult terrain and extreme weather conditions, urging additional financial support. In response, Finance Minister Sitharaman assured that the demands would be considered sympathetically.

During his visit, CM Sukhu may also meet senior Congress leaders to discuss the formation of the party’s executive committee in Himachal Pradesh. He is expected to return to Shimla tomorrow and participate in the ongoing Assembly Budget Session.