No special help released by center to Himachal: CM

Dharamsala, September 7, 2023: Chief Minister Sukhwinder Singh Sukhu, responding to questions from journalists in Kangra district today, clarified that the Center has not provided any special assistance to Himachal Pradesh. He explained that the funds received to address disasters are allocated to each state based on a part of tax collected by the state. Himachal Pradesh receives Rs 180 crore every year in July and another Rs 180 crore in December. The Central Government has already released the December installment of Rs 180 crore, which is what it  was referring to. He emphasized the need for special relief funds from the Center, similar to the assistance provided after the Kedarnath disaster, to aid those affected by recent calamities in Himachal Pradesh. The State Government, he assured, is ready to rebuild homes even without special assistance if necessary.

Regarding the prohibition of crusher activities in the Beas river basin and its tributaries, Chief Minister Sukhu clarified that the decision was made in response to the challenges posed by exceptionally heavy monsoon rains this season. This ban extends beyond Kangra and encompasses Kullu, Mandi, and Hamirpur districts within the state. The prohibition is enforced under the Disaster Management Act of 2005 to preserve the fragile ecological balance and protect the environment, communities, and infrastructure.

The Chief Minister reiterated the government's steadfast commitment to safeguarding the environment and ensuring the well-being of the people in light of changing weather patterns and natural disasters.

Chief Minister Thakur Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu also visited the historic Shiva temple in Chanour, Kangra district, today, where he offered prayers for the peace and prosperity of the state and its people. He shared his long-standing connection with the temple, expressing that he had been a frequent visitor even before assuming office as Chief Minister.

As part of the event, Chief Minister Sukhu planted a sapling at the Dadasiba forest rest house in the Jaswan Pragpur Assembly segment. MLA Sanjay Rattan and Hoshiyar Singh, along with Congress leader Surender Mankotia, Nardev Kanwar, and Dr. Rajesh Sharma, joined him in this endeavor. Also present were Deputy Commissioner Dr. Nipun Jindal, SP Shalini Agnihotri, and other dignitaries.