Centre releases Rs 286cr to boost HP development: MP

Shimla: BJP Rajya Sabha MP Harsh Mahajan on Saturday announced the release of nearly Rs 286 crore in financial assistance to Himachal Pradesh. On the occasion he said the Narendra Modi-led Central govt remained firmly committed to the overall development of the hill state. The package includes Rs 27.23 crore as second instalment under the capital investment scheme and Rs 259 crore earmarked for disaster reconstruction and infrastructure strengthening. Mahajan stated that the funds would be transferred to the agencies concerned within 10 working days and utilised for roads, bridges, public buildings, and other essential infrastructure projects.
The aid was granted under the special assistance to states for capital investment scheme, aimed at accelerating infrastructure growth and stimulating economic activity. He emphasised that transparency and accountability would be strictly maintained and any project modifications would require prior approval from the Centre. Mahajan added that delays in submitting utilisation certificates could lead to withholding of further instalments, and cases of double funding might result in reduced future assistance.Mahajan also criticised the Congress-led state govt, alleging it continued to receive Central aid while attempting to create a misleading narrative against the Union governement.