Army to Set Up Wind Turbine Project at 20 Border Locations; CM Sukhu Reviews Defence and Tourism Initiatives

Chief Minister Thakur Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu on Tuesday reviewed a series of projects being implemented by the Indian Army’s Central Command in Himachal Pradesh and assured the state government’s full cooperation for their timely execution.

During the high-level meeting, it was revealed that the Army is planning to install wind turbine systems at 20 border locations, for which the detailed project report (DPR) has already been prepared. The renewable energy project is projected to generate between 68,000 and 80,000 kWh of electricity annually, enough to supply 120 to 160 households in remote and high-altitude regions.

Surge in Border Tourism

Expressing satisfaction over the state’s border tourism initiative, jointly launched with the Indian Army, the Chief Minister said the project has shown encouraging results, with tourist arrivals in the border areas surging from around 21,000 in 2024 to over 70,000 in 2025 — a three-and-a-half-fold increase.

Mr. Sukhu directed officials to provide hassle-free facilities and infrastructure to visitors traveling to the border regions to ensure a smooth and memorable tourism experience.

Revival of Border Trade Routes

The Chief Minister also informed the meeting that the state government has written to the Union Government seeking the resumption of cross-border trade through Shipki La, and that the response from the Centre has been largely positive.

He added that due to consistent diplomatic efforts, India and China have agreed to reopen border trade through the Lipulekh Pass, Shipki-La Pass, and Nathu-La Pass, signaling renewed economic and cultural exchanges along the frontier.

Rangrik Airport Project Reviewed

Reviewing progress on the proposed airport at Rangrik, Mr. Sukhu urged the Army and concerned departments to expedite work on the project, stating that the new airport would provide a major boost to tourism, connectivity, and local development in the region.

Meeting Attendees

The meeting was attended by Revenue Minister Jagat Singh Negi, Lieutenant General Anindya Sengupta, Chief Secretary Sanjay Gupta, Principal Advisor to the Chief Minister Ram Subhag Singh, and other senior officers from both the state administration and the Indian Army.

Broader Significance

The collaboration between the Himachal Pradesh Government and the Indian Army highlights a model of coordinated development in border regions, combining strategic infrastructure, sustainable energy, and tourism-led growth. The initiatives are also aligned with India’s larger goals of renewable energy expansion and self-reliance in frontier areas.