
Mining revenue under Congress Govt set to grow by ₹120 crore, says Sukhu
The Hindu
Himachal Pradesh CM Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu praises Congress regime for increased mining revenue, transparent governance, and green industry promotion.
Taking a dig at the Bharatiya Janta Party (BJP), Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu on Friday (February 28, 2025) said owing to the transparent governance under the current Congress regime, the revenue generation from mining in the State is expected to be ₹120 crore more than the previous BJP government’s tenure.
“During the BJP government’s tenure two years ago, the State government’s revenue from mining was ₹240 crore. However, due to the pragmatic efforts of our government, it increased to ₹314 crore in the last financial year and is expected to reach ₹360 crore by the end of the current financial year (2024-25). This means that within just two years, the revenue is set to grow by ₹120 crore,” said Mr. Sukhu in Shimla.
The Chief Minister said directions have been issued to the Industries Department to include the Himachal Pradesh Forest Development Corporation in the auctioning process of mining leases. “The State government would formulate new rules for utilising District Mineral Foundation Trust funds so that the money can be used for the welfare of the underprivileged sections of society,” he said.
Mr. Sukhu said the State government is committed to providing accountable and transparent governance to the people of the State. “We have taken numerous steps in this direction over the past two years. The State government is making efforts to promote green industries in Himachal Pradesh and is encouraging investments in tourism, hydropower, food processing, data storage, and the dairy sector,” he said.
“These initiatives will not only help in environmental conservation but will also provide employment and self-employment opportunities for the local youth. We are also committed to providing affordable electricity to industries. Himachal Pradesh continues to have cheaper electricity than neighboring States,” he added.