Himachal Pradesh Releases ₹500 Cr for Pending Payments, Political Row Over ₹1,500 Cr Aid Intensifies

In a major relief for contractors across Himachal Pradesh, the state government has released 500 crore to clear pending payments up to March 1, offering much-needed financial support to those awaiting dues for months.

The announcement was made by Naresh Chauhan, Principal Advisor (Media) to Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu, who highlighted that while the state is taking steps to manage its finances, a significant amount of central assistance is still pending.

According to Chauhan, Himachal Pradesh has yet to receive 1,500 crore that was announced by Prime Minister Narendra Modi to help the state recover from last year’s devastating disaster. The delay in funds has now become a point of political contention.

He noted that Congress MP Rajni Patil raised the issue in Parliament, but alleged that BJP MPs from Himachal Pradesh did not actively push for the continuation of financial support like RDG (Revenue Deficit Grant).

Despite the ongoing financial challenges, Chauhan emphasized that the state government remains committed to maintaining financial discipline and ensuring uninterrupted development work. “We are making every possible effort to strengthen the financial condition of the state,” he said.

He also took a swipe at the Opposition, stating that constant criticism over the state’s financial health is unhelpful. Instead, he urged them to work collaboratively in the interest of Himachal Pradesh’s development.

The government’s move to release ₹500 crore is being seen as a timely step to boost infrastructure work and support contractors, but the larger question of delayed central assistance continues to loom over the state’s finances.

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