Industries Minister Harshwardhan Chauhan has assured industrialists that the Himachal Pradesh government will soon roll out a new industrial policy after due consultation, addressing concerns over the lapse of the previous policy in March. The assurance came during an interactive session with the Confederation of Indian Industry’s (CII) Himachal Pradesh chapter held in Chandigarh on Thursday evening.
CII Seeks Urgent Industrial Policy
The CII Himachal Pradesh chapter had sought the early constitution of the state’s industrial policy, emphasizing that a clear and consistent industrial vision is essential to protect existing industry, support expansion, and attract fresh investment. Sanjay Suri, Chairman of CII Himachal Pradesh, noted that the continuing gap since the earlier policy lapsed had already begun to affect investment decisions. He expressed hope for close collaboration between the government and industry on the new policy, as well as on connectivity and power tariff issues that shape the competitiveness of the state’s industrial clusters.
Minister Highlights State’s Strengths
Chauhan highlighted that Himachal Pradesh has performed commendably in the social sector despite its geographical challenges. He pointed to the pharmaceutical sector as a particular point of pride, having earned recognition both nationally and internationally. He also credited the state’s strong law and order record as a key reason why the industry continues to trust Himachal Pradesh.
Infrastructure and Ease of Doing Business
Among the issues raised by the CII were the completion of the Pinjore-Baddi-Nalagarh road widening project, timely progress on priority national highway works, restoration of the Dabhota bridge, advancement of the Chandigarh-Baddi railway line, and a clear roadmap for the development of the bulk drug park in Una. The CII also stressed the need for smoother ease-of-doing-business measures, including digital approvals, defined timelines, accountability in resolving delayed cases, and dedicated nodal officers for key industrial clusters.
Power Tariffs and MSME Support
Further requests included more competitive industrial power tariffs, removal of duty on captive solar generation, improved infrastructure within industrial estates, and the revival of the SLIIC mechanism to support stressed MSMEs, hotels, and tourism units. The minister acknowledged the fiscal constraints Himachal is currently facing but reaffirmed the government’s resolve to strengthen the industry and ensure the state remains competitive with its neighbours through the upcoming industry-friendly policy.
Local Employment Commitment
Chauhan appealed to the industry to give preference to local youth in employment so that the benefits of industrial growth go directly to the people of Himachal Pradesh. Suri affirmed that the industry is committed to this vision of inclusive growth and will continue to prioritize local employment as it expands.
Collaborative Approach
Ashok Mehta, Vice-Chairman of CII Himachal, stressed the importance of close collaboration between the government and industry. He conveyed the CII’s commitment to strengthening the industrial ecosystem, bringing in investment, enhancing competitiveness, and supporting the state’s sustainable economic development. He also expressed appreciation for the government’s proactive approach and looked forward to a continued partnership in fostering a conducive environment for business and inclusive growth across the state.
