Sun Jan 25 14:18:22 UTC 2026: ### Himachal Pradesh CM Sukhu Criticizes Central Government, Highlights Fiscal Achievements

The Story:

Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu, speaking at the 56th ‘Statehood Day’ celebration in Pragpur, Kangra district on January 25, 2026, asserted that his Congress-led government has improved the state’s financial condition through increased revenue generation and expenditure cuts. He simultaneously criticized the BJP-led Central government for alleged indifference towards Himachal Pradesh. Sukhu defended the restoration of the Old Pension Scheme (OPS) and highlighted efforts to manage the state’s debt inherited from the previous BJP administration.

Key Points:

  • The Congress government restored the Old Pension Scheme (OPS), stopping additional borrowing of around ₹1,700 crore.
  • The current government inherited liabilities exceeding ₹10,000 crore from the previous BJP government in salary and pension arrears.
  • Outstanding arrears related to salaries, pensions, and other dues amount to ₹8,555 crore.
  • Complete payment of arrears for pensioners and family pensioners aged 70 and above will be made in January, costing ₹90 crore.
  • The state received ₹18,903 crore in revenue deficit grants under the current government, compared to ₹46,862 crore under the previous BJP government.
  • Total Central transfers stood at ₹70,191 crore under the current government, versus ₹1,16,000 crore during the BJP government’s tenure.
  • The state’s revenue has reached ₹49,500 crore within three years under the Congress government, compared to ₹55,000 crore during the BJP’s five-year term.
  • The government has initiated ‘Samriddh Himachal Vision’ for environmentally sustainable and disaster-resilient development.

Key Takeaways:

  • The Congress government in Himachal Pradesh is actively contrasting its fiscal performance with that of the previous BJP administration.
  • The Old Pension Scheme remains a significant financial factor and a point of contention.
  • There is a clear tension between the state government and the Central government regarding financial allocations.
  • The Sukhu government is framing its policies as fiscally responsible and focused on long-term sustainable development.

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