Himachal CM unveils Rs 584.44 billion budget 2024-25

It was mentioned that in the financial year 2023-24, the budget size was Rs 534.13 billion.

For the ongoing financial year 2023-24, the state government estimated a growth of 7.1 per cent, with the State Gross Domestic Product projected to be Rs 2.07 trillion. The annual per capita income was also estimated at Rs 235,199.

Sukhu, who also handles the finance portfolio, made a significant announcement, stating that his government would procure 20 quintals of naturally grown grains per family at a Minimum Support Price (MSP) of Rs 40 per kg and maize at the rate of Rs 30 per kg.

He mentioned that the government is promoting self-reliance among farmers by creating opportunities for self-employment and employment through natural farming, with 36,000 farmers already adopting natural farming.

The state government's plan includes the development of 2,500 agricultural clusters over 3 to 5 years under the 'Himachal Pradesh Agriculture Mission', focusing on promoting high-value crops. A detailed action plan will be prepared to boost the production of coarse grains in the State.

Financial assistance, with an 80% subsidy, will be provided to fish farmers for the construction of new fishing ponds covering an area of 20 hectares.

In the green energy sector, Chief Minister Sukhu, addressing the Assembly, announced that the largest 'Solar Power Project' with a capacity of 32 MW in Pekhubella will be commissioned by the end of March 2024. The 'Aghlor Solar Power Project' in Una, with an installed capacity of 10 MW, is set for commissioning by June 2024. Additionally, the Bhanjal (Una) Solar Power Project, with a capacity of 5 MW, will be dedicated to the people of the State by September 2024.

Regarding tourism infrastructure, Sukhu stated that the Rehabilitation and Resettlement (R&R) Plan for the proposed expansion of Gaggal Airport will be finalized soon, and land acquisition work will commence.