CM Sukhu Urges Centre to Expedite Tourism Project Funds During Meeting with Union Minister in Delhi.
Push for speedy approvals under Swadesh Darshan and SASCI schemes to boost water and adventure tourism in Himachal Pradesh.
New Delhi:
Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu met Union Minister for Culture and Tourism Gajendra Singh Shekhawat in New Delhi today, urging the Centre to expedite the approval and release of pending funds for key tourism projects in the state.
During the high-level meeting, CM Sukhu highlighted the state government’s commitment to developing Himachal Pradesh as a premier destination for adventure and water tourism. He specifically requested the speedy approval of the Auhar Water Tourism Project, which is envisioned as a major hub for water sports and adventure activities.
“The Auhar project has the potential to become a landmark destination for water tourism in the region. We seek early clearance and funding support to begin work without delay,” Sukhu told the Union Minister.
The Chief Minister also raised the issue of pending approvals for other vital projects, including those at Dehra and Pong Dam, which are also aimed at boosting eco-tourism and local employment.
Sukhu urged the Ministry to approve proposals submitted under the Swadesh Darshan Scheme and also sought support for projects under the Special Assistance to States for Capital Investment (SASCI) scheme, which are intended to create iconic tourist centres across Himachal Pradesh.
In addition to seeking financial and administrative support, CM Sukhu invited the Ministry to explore opportunities for central and private investment in the state’s tourism infrastructure, particularly in unexplored areas that promise high potential for eco-friendly development.
Accompanying the Chief Minister were Principal Advisor to CM Ram Subhag Singh, Secretary (Tourism) Devesh Kumar, Secretary to CM Rakesh Kanwar, and other senior officials of the Himachal Pradesh Government.
The meeting reflects the state’s proactive push to align with national tourism initiatives while drawing focus to its unique natural offerings to drive sustainable economic growth through tourism.
