Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Sukhu expressed concerns that the BJP government would have jeopardized the state’s interests in the Kishau dam project by accepting a previous agreement, leading to significant financial losses. However, the state government’s rejection of the 2023 deal was a crucial win for safeguarding the state’s economic well-being.
Under the revised agreement, the state is set to gain an additional annual revenue of Rs 600 crore, marking a positive step towards economic growth. Chief Minister Sukhu emphasized the Congress government’s commitment to fulfilling public expectations through the successful implementation of various welfare schemes benefiting vulnerable groups in society.
In response to the state’s challenges posed by natural disasters, Himachal Pradesh increased compensation for fully damaged homes to Rs 8 lakh, the highest disaster relief compensation in the country, using its own resources. Despite facing a reduction of Rs 10,000 crore per year in the Revenue Deficit Grant, the government remains dedicated to advancing Himachal towards self-sufficiency.
Highlighting the neglect of the state’s interests by the Centre, Chief Minister Sukhu underscored the delay in receiving the promised Rs 1,500 crore disaster relief fund announced by Prime Minister Narendra Modi during his 2025 Kangra visit. He also noted the lack of collective effort by the four BJP Members of Parliament in seeking financial aid from the Prime Minister.
Chief Minister Sukhu disclosed his personal contributions of Rs 51 lakh towards assisting disaster-affected families and Rs 35 lakh during the Covid-19 pandemic, emphasizing his commitment to supporting the state’s welfare. Addressing concerns about political tactics, he criticized the BJP’s use of agencies like the Enforcement Directorate and the CBI for electoral gains, highlighting internal divisions within the party.
Asserting the Congress government’s transparency and accountability, Chief Minister Sukhu defended his Cabinet against any allegations over the past three-and-a-half years, emphasizing the party’s dedication to governance and public service.
