Himachal Pradesh News
Himachal Pradesh to Sign 3-Year Power Pact with Punjab; CM Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu Invites Investors with New Industrial Policy
Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu has announced that the state will sign a three-year Power Purchase Agreement (PPA) with Punjab, describing the neighbouring state as its “elder brother” and highlighting the long-standing relationship between the two states.
Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu has announced that the state will sign a three-year Power Purchase Agreement (PPA) with Punjab, describing the neighbouring state as its “elder brother” and highlighting the long-standing relationship between the two states.
Speaking at the Chandigarh Leadership Conclave and the 23rd Annual General Meeting organised by The Indus Entrepreneurs (TiE), Chandigarh, on Saturday evening, Sukhu said Himachal Pradesh would continue to strengthen its partnership with Punjab through power supply.
The Chief Minister also invited investors to explore opportunities in Himachal Pradesh, calling the state one of the most promising destinations for investment. He assured investors of all possible support and said the government was working on a new industrial policy aimed at creating a more business-friendly environment.
Under the proposed policy, the state is planning to offer reduced electricity tariffs to attract more investment and encourage industrial growth.
Himachal Eyes Leadership in Green Hydrogen
Sukhu said Himachal Pradesh was preparing to emerge as a national leader in green hydrogen production in the coming years. As part of its clean energy initiatives, biochar plants are being established in different parts of the state.
He also said a geothermal energy project had already been established in Kinnaur district, highlighting the state’s focus on exploring alternative and sustainable sources of energy.
According to the Chief Minister, Himachal Pradesh also offers significant potential for the IT sector. The state is working towards developing data storage infrastructure, while an IT park is being developed at Kandaghat in Solan district.
Government Pursuing Himachal’s Share in Chandigarh
The Chief Minister said the state government was continuing its efforts to secure Himachal Pradesh’s 7.19 per cent share in Chandigarh. He said continuous discussions were being held in this regard.
Sukhu also highlighted the development of the Chandigarh-Baddi railway connectivity project. The Himachal Pradesh government, he said, is bearing 50 per cent of the expenditure related to land acquisition and construction.
The railway network is expected to be completed within three years and is likely to provide a major boost to industrial activity in Baddi and Nalagarh, two of the state’s key industrial areas.
CM Says Himachal Safe for Tourists During Monsoon
Addressing concerns related to monsoon conditions and natural disasters, Sukhu said Himachal Pradesh remained safe for tourists during the rainy season. However, he advised visitors to avoid rivers and seasonal streams, particularly during periods of heavy rainfall.
The Chief Minister said nearly 75 lakh people continued to live in the state during the monsoon season, adding that tourists should visit Himachal Pradesh without unnecessary fear while following basic safety precautions.
Kangra Airport Expansion and Heliports to Improve Connectivity
Sukhu said the expansion of Kangra airport was underway to support the state’s tourism sector. He added that the investment in airport infrastructure would benefit both tourists and the industrial sector.
The state government is also working on the construction of heliports to improve air connectivity. According to the Chief Minister, helicopter services connecting all district headquarters are planned for the future.
With new initiatives in clean energy, industrial development, IT infrastructure, rail connectivity and tourism, the Himachal Pradesh government is positioning the state as an attractive destination for investors while continuing to focus on long-term economic growth.
