Himachal Pradesh Government Announces Minimum Support Price for Ginger Farmers
In a significant move to bolster agricultural income, the Himachal Pradesh government has declared it will soon implement a Minimum Support Price (MSP) for ginger, mirroring the existing scheme for milk. Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu made this announcement during a public gathering in Sarahan, located within the Pachhad assembly constituency of Sirmaur district, on Saturday.
Comprehensive Development Initiatives Unveiled
Alongside the agricultural boost, CM Sukhu outlined a series of development projects aimed at enhancing local infrastructure and services. He confirmed that within the next year, the Sarahan hospital will be equipped with specialist doctors and an ultrasound machine, significantly upgrading healthcare access for residents.
Further educational and connectivity improvements include the opening of a CBSE school in Sarahan and the double-laning of the Sarahan-Chandigarh road. The chief minister also pledged to address all demands put forth by local Congress leader Dayal Pyari and former legislative assembly speaker Gangu Ram Musafir, emphasizing his administration's commitment to local representation.
Foundation Stones and Inaugurations Worth Rs 32 Crore
During the event, CM Sukhu inaugurated and laid foundation stones for seven development projects totaling approximately Rs 32 crore in the Sarahan area. The inaugurated projects comprise:
- A Rs 1.44 crore office-cum-residential building for the assistant district attorney in Rajgarh.
- A Rs 1.98 crore sub-tehsil at Nohri.
- The Rs 5.74 crore Thani Thamani Kharimu road.
- The Rs 4.73 crore LWSS Lana Bhalta Loh water supply scheme.
- The Rs 1.66 crore Rajgarh-Yashwant Nagar road.
Foundation stones were laid for:
- A Rs 14.13 crore motorable bridge over the Giri river connecting Chabyoga and Salamu.
- Rs 2.15 crore Type-II PWD residential quarters at Rajgarh.
Political Stand on Revenue Deficit Grant
Reflecting on the state's fiscal rights, CM Sukhu invoked the legacy of first chief minister Dr. Y.S. Parmar, who enacted Section 118 to protect Himachal Pradesh's interests. Sukhu noted that while the state has historically received a Revenue Deficit Grant (RDG), this right was revoked by the 16th Finance Commission.
He criticized the BJP for its stance during a recent all-party meeting, alleging that despite a venue change at their request, BJP leaders failed to support Himachal's claim to the RDG. "In the meeting, I asked whether BJP leaders were in favour of Himachal Pradesh receiving the RDG, but they did not say a word. BJP leaders should clarify their stand on the Rs 10,000-crore cut before the people of the state," Sukhu stated.
He emphasized that the RDG is not a plea for charity but a rightful entitlement of Himachal Pradesh, underscoring his government's ongoing efforts to defend state rights and support the rural economy.
Cross-Party Support for State Interests
Echoing the chief minister's sentiments, Industries Minister Harshwardhan Chauhan urged political parties to prioritize state interests over ideological divides, affirming that the Revenue Deficit Grant is a fundamental right for Himachal Pradesh. This call for unity highlights the broader political context surrounding the state's developmental and fiscal challenges.
