New Delhi/Shimla, May 23 (UNI) To strengthen Himachal Pradesh’s economic autonomy and control over its natural resources, the Centre has given in-principle approval to transfer four major hydroelectric projects back to the state government.
These projects—Luhri, Sunni, and Dhaula Sidh from SJVNL, and Duggar from NHPC—were earlier handed over to Central PSUs by the previous Jai Ram Thakur-led BJP government, raising concerns about long-term revenue and resource rights.
Chief Minister Thakur Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu, during his meeting with Union Power Minister Manohar Lal Khattar in New Delhi today, emphasised that the surrender of these projects to PSUs for an indefinite period after 40-year lease agreements had severely compromised Himachal’s share of free power and its long-term economic interests. “The previous government compromised state rights. We are correcting that course,” said Sukhu.
The Chief Minister underlined the need for cost assessments of the transferred projects to be finalised quickly so that the state can initiate steps to harness the full economic potential of its hydro resources.
He also reiterated Himachal Pradesh’s long-pending demand for the handover of the Baira Siul project—set up in 1980-81—arguing that the capital costs had already been recovered and the state deserved its due.
Sukhu also took up the issue of Bhakra Beas Management Board (BBMB) projects. He demanded the release of pending payments owed to the state and sought priority for free power allotment from BBMB, highlighting that the BBMB installations lie within Himachal’s territorial jurisdiction.
He further pressed for the appointment of a permanent member from Himachal Pradesh in the BBMB board to ensure the state’s active representation in decisions related to water and power distribution.
“The hydropower sector has fuelled national growth. But Himachal, despite being the resource state, has not been fairly compensated,” the Chief Minister asserted.
The Centre has also assured consideration of central funds for development of the proposed Jathia Devi Township and other urban infrastructure projects in Himachal.
The Chief Minister was accompanied by Principal Advisor Ram Subhag Singh, Principal Secretary (Finance) Devesh Kumar, Secretary to CM Rakesh Kanwar, and Resident Commissioner Meera Mohanty.
UNI ML RN