CM Sukhu Promises Focus on Rural Economy, Education, and Health in Upcoming Budget

Arki / Nalagarh: Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu has revealed that the state’s upcoming budget will prioritize strengthening the rural economy alongside significant investments in education and healthcare services.

Speaking at a public meeting in Baruna, located in Nalagarh Assembly constituency on Sunday, Sukhu emphasized the state government’s commitment to improving the lives of the poor and marginalized communities. He assured that the government has ample resources to fund these crucial sectors, contrary to claims made by the previous administration.

Commitment to Education Infrastructure

The Chief Minister also shared plans to dedicate substantial funds to the education sector. He disclosed that the state government intends to spend 600 crores over the next three years on constructing new school buildings, a move that aligns with the government’s focus on ensuring that educational facilities meet the growing demands of the state’s youth.

Criticism of BJP’s Subsidy Policies

Sukhu criticized the previous BJP-led government for allocating subsidies to the affluent, neglecting the needs of the poor. He asserted that the Congress-led government is making strides towards a fairer distribution of resources by phasing out subsidies for the wealthy and redirecting funds towards more sustainable development projects. He reaffirmed that the state has ample financial resources and is making important reforms to improve the education and healthcare sectors.

Support for Natural Farming and Farmers

The Chief Minister also urged farmers to register for selling their natural farming products, such as maize and wheat, which are being purchased at favorable rates. He highlighted that 398 metric tonnes of maize had already been bought at Rs 30 per kg, while wheat is being purchased at Rs 40 per kg. Sukhu encouraged farmers to capitalize on these benefits by registering their produce under the natural farming scheme, aiming to promote sustainable agricultural practices across the state.

Vision for a Prosperous Himachal

Sukhu outlined his vision for Himachal Pradesh’s future, stating that by 2027, the state will become self-reliant and the most prosperous in the country by 2032. The Chief Minister expressed confidence that with proper policies and the support of the public, Himachal could achieve these ambitious goals, creating a more prosperous and equitable state for all its citizens.

Green Hydrogen Project in Nalagarh

Additionally, Sukhu shared that he will soon visit Nalagarh to lay the foundation stone for a one-megawatt Green Hydrogen project, a promising step toward sustainable energy production in the region. He emphasized that, unlike the previous government’s empty announcements, the Congress administration is focused on delivering real, impactful change, including the necessary staffing of educational and healthcare institutions. Sukhu pointed out that the BJP’s previous mismanagement of state funds aimed to win elections, but his government is focused on restoring the state’s financial health and prioritizing its citizens’ welfare.

At the event, Sukhu also honored Nirmala Devi, the wife of martyr Havildar Ram Ratan, acknowledging her sacrifices and the contributions of her late husband to the nation.