Army to Establish Wind Turbine Projects in Border Areas of Himachal Pradesh; CM Reviews Defence and Tourism Initiatives.
Shimla:
In a move to strengthen energy self-reliance and promote sustainable development in remote regions, the Indian Army is set to establish wind turbine projects at 20 strategic locations along Himachal Pradesh’s border areas. The initiative aims to generate 68,000 to 80,000 kWh of electricity annually, enough to power 120 to 160 households in high-altitude zones where energy access remains a challenge.
Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu chaired a review meeting today with senior officers from the Indian Army’s Central Command, during which he assessed the progress of various Army-led projects across the state. The Chief Minister assured the Army of the state government’s full cooperation in ensuring timely execution and logistical support for these initiatives.
The meeting also reviewed the border tourism initiative, jointly launched by the state government and the Indian Army, which has seen an impressive surge in tourist arrivals. Tourist inflow in border regions rose dramatically from around 21,000 visitors in 2024 to over 70,000 in 2025, marking a three-and-a-half-fold increase.
Expressing satisfaction over the positive results, CM Sukhu directed officials to provide hassle-free facilities and improved infrastructure for tourists visiting the border areas to further enhance their experience. He added that these efforts align with the state’s broader goal of promoting eco-friendly tourism and sustainable livelihoods in frontier districts.
The Chief Minister also informed the meeting that the state government has written to the Union Government regarding the resumption of trade through Shipki La, and that positive indications have been received. He noted that, due to persistent efforts by the state, both India and China have agreed to reopen border trade routes through the Lipulekh Pass, Shipki-La Pass, and Nathu-La Pass—a development expected to bolster cross-border economic activity and cultural exchange.
Additionally, CM Sukhu reviewed the progress of the proposed airport at Rangrik, emphasizing that the project will significantly boost tourism and connectivity in the Spiti region. He urged Army officials and the concerned departments to expedite the ongoing work to ensure timely completion.
The meeting was attended by Revenue Minister Jagat Singh Negi, Lieutenant General Anindya Sengupta, Chief Secretary Sanjay Gupta, Principal Advisor to the Chief Minister Ram Subhag Singh, and other senior officials from the Army and state administration.
This collaboration between the Himachal Pradesh Government and the Indian Army reflects a holistic approach to development, combining national security with sustainable energy, tourism, and regional growth in the strategically vital border districts.
