Shimla

At a conference in Shimla, Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu called upon industry leaders to invest in key sectors such as tourism, food processing, and information technology to boost the state’s economy.

Addressing the CII Himachal Pradesh Annual Conference, Sukhu emphasised the government’s focus on promoting environmentally sustainable industries, considering the state’s fragile ecology. He assured investors of full support, highlighting that the government plans to invest around Rs 3,000 crore in the tourism sector in the coming years.

The Chief Minister also spoke about infrastructure development, noting that heliports are being built across district headquarters and major tourist destinations. Existing heli-taxi services will be expanded, while work on upgrading Kangra airport is already underway.

Reiterating his government’s commitment to ease of doing business, Sukhu said industrialists would be protected from any form of harassment and encouraged them to directly raise concerns with him. He added that efforts are being made to streamline approvals through an improved single-window system.

He further highlighted that a bulk drug park is under development at Haroli in Una district, offering incentives to attract investors. The government is also working on improving infrastructure in industrial hubs located along the state’s borders, including plans for underground utility ducts in Baddi and solutions to power supply issues.

On connectivity, Sukhu said the state is sharing half the cost, along with land acquisition expenses, to extend railway access to Baddi, which will benefit industrial operations in the region.

Describing Himachal Pradesh as both the “lungs of North India” and a “water bowl,” he raised concerns over the discontinuation of Revenue Deficit Grants under Article 275(1), stating that the state is seeking their restoration.

Industries Minister Harshwardhan Chauhan added that the government has prioritised resource mobilisation despite challenges such as natural disasters and political instability. He also noted that financial assistance announced by the Centre for disaster-hit families is still awaited.

READ MORE: Kolkata's Dr Honey Qureshi is an angel for childless couples

Chauhan underlined the state’s strengths, including reliable power supply and strong law and order, while urging people to support local products as part of efforts to build a self-reliant Himachal Pradesh.