Himachal LoP meets Sitharaman, seeks enhanced financial assistance

Shimla: Leader of opposition Jai Ram Thakur met Union finance minister Nirmala Sitharaman in New Delhi on Tuesday and sought enhanced financial assistance for Himachal Pradesh, citing the state's challenging geography and current economic situation.Thakur discussed infrastructure expansion, disaster relief, and measures to strengthen the state's fiscal position, while expressing gratitude for continued central support. He said that under Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Himachal received unprecedented assistance. He noted the state contributed only 10% towards 191 centrally sponsored schemes due to its special category status, with the Centre bearing the remaining cost. He highlighted ongoing investments in national highways, four-lane roads, tunnels, and railway connectivity.
Referring to recent approvals, he said Himachal received Rs 3,000 crore through external-aided projects this month. This includes Rs 1,617 crore under JICA Phase II to strengthen health infrastructure and Rs 1,992 crore for disaster reconstruction supported by the World Bank.Thakur also criticised the state govt, alleging that despite visiting Delhi last week, the entire cabinet failed to meet either the Prime Minister or the finance minister to seek assistance for the hill state.