"We would make Himachal self reliant and richest in the country by 2027," says Himachal Pradesh CM Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu

Shimla (Himachal Pradesh) [India], September 1 (ANI): Chief Minister of Himachal Pradesh, Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu, asserted on Sunday that the state is not facing a financial crisis but is instead implementing strategic financial management measures.
Sukhu accused the BJP of politicizing the state's financial condition and assured the public that all promises and guarantees made to the people would be fulfilled.
"The work I am doing will ensure that by 2027, Himachal Pradesh becomes self-reliant and the most prosperous state in the country. I have been saying this from the first day," Sukhu stated. He clarified that reports of a financial crisis are misleading, describing the situation as a reform rather than a crisis. "The restrictions we have placed on salaries are meant to inform all sections of society that we need to instil discipline for the future. There is a need to improve the system, and I am working on this. Our economy has already seen significant improvement due to these reforms" he said .
The Chief Minister noted that the state faced a debt of Rs 85,000 crore and additional liabilities of Rs 10,000 crores owed to employees. "If there is even a slight downturn in the economy, it gets affected. I want to assure you that we will fulfil all the promises made," he added.
Sukhu also mentioned the numerous subsidies provided by the state government. "We have given 14 types of subsidies. Some people, who are already paying high taxes, are willing to forgo these subsidies. Strict decisions are necessary, and we are taking them to ensure financial discipline," he emphasized.
The Chief Minister defended his government's decision to implement financial austerity measures, stating that such measures are crucial for strengthening the economy.
"If there is no capital expenditure, how will the economy be strengthened? Restoration work, road building, and other developmental activities must continue. Although we need to spend Rs 6,000 crore, we may not manage it all, but these expenditures will boost the economy. Our revenue is growing rapidly, thanks to these tough decisions," Sukhu explained.
Sukhu called on all sections of society, including government employees, farmers, and the general public, to support the government's efforts.
"Everyone deserves quality health services and education. The health and education systems have deteriorated, but we are committed to making improvements," he said, noting that the state has only been under his administration for 19 months.
He further criticized the Union government for not providing Himachal Pradesh with its rightful shares, including Rs 100 crore for NPAs and Rs 9,300 crore for NPS.
"We are awaiting our rights from the Centre. The Bharatiya Janata Party is indulging in political games, making baseless claims about drones hurting our interests or issues with liquor contract auctions. These are mere distractions," he remarked.
Sukhu concluded by reiterating his commitment to reforming the state's financial system. "We are pursuing financial jurisprudence, instilling discipline, and working towards making Himachal Pradesh self-reliant by 2027. Elections may come and go, but our reform agenda will continue," Sukhu added further. (ANI)