The Himachal Pradesh government, led by Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu, unveiled a budget of Rs 58,444 crore for the financial year 2024-25, with a focus on fostering self-reliance in the northern state. This marks an increase from the Rs 53,413 crore budget in the previous fiscal year. The government aims for a 7.1% growth in the current financial year, projecting the State Gross Domestic Product at Rs 207,430 crore, with an annual per capita income estimated at Rs 235,199.
In the green energy sector, the Chief Minister announced the commissioning of the largest ‘Solar Power Project’ with a 32 MW capacity at Pekhubella by the end of March 2024. Other solar power projects, including the ‘Aghlor Solar Power Project’ (10 MW) in Una and the Bhanjal (Una) Solar Power Project (5 MW), are slated for commissioning by June and September 2024, respectively.
Tourism infrastructure development is also a priority, with plans for the expansion of Gaggal Airport and the construction of nine heliports in the first phase. Several tourist destinations, including Chandratal, Kaza, Tandi, Rackchham, Nako – Chango – Khab, and a Sky Walk Bridge near Kufri, are slated for development. Furthermore, the construction of a 3.2-kilometer-long ropeway between Bijli Mahadev and Mohal in Kullu, costing Rs. 272 crore, is set to commence. Additionally, a broad gauge rail line will be initiated from Kalka to Parwanoo for the convenience of tourists and residents.
