Land Revenue from Hydropower Developers Is a Legitimate Right of the State: Chief Minister Sukhu.
Shimla:
Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu on Saturday asserted that the collection of land revenue from hydropower developers is the legitimate right of the State and emphasized that people of Himachal Pradesh must benefit from the State’s existing natural resources.
The Chief Minister was chairing a meeting with developers of various hydropower projects operating in the State, during which detailed discussions were held on the assessment and payment of land revenue. Addressing the developers, he said that Himachal Pradesh is blessed with abundant natural resources and it is the responsibility of hydropower project developers to comply with all statutory provisions, including timely payment of land revenue.
He underlined that all operational hydropower projects must strictly adhere to existing regulations. However, he added that discussions could be held with stakeholders to rationalize land revenue rates, wherever required, in a fair and transparent manner.
During the meeting, it was informed that a separate meeting regarding hydropower projects with a capacity of up to 25 MW would be held on January 12 in Shimla under the chairmanship of Revenue Minister Jagat Singh Negi.
The Chief Minister reiterated the State Government’s commitment to ensuring optimal utilization of Himachal Pradesh’s resources for the welfare and development of its people. He assured hydropower developers that the government would work proactively to address their genuine concerns and provide effective solutions to challenges faced by the sector.
Highlighting the government’s broader vision, CM Sukhu said that several policy decisions have been taken to make Himachal Pradesh self-reliant and economically prosperous. He noted that the State has firmly asserted its rights with the Centre and neighbouring states, including demanding permanent membership in the Bhakra Beas Management Board (BBMB) projects and seeking early release of approximately Rs. 6,500 crore in arrears pending for the period from 1966 to 2011.
Revenue Minister Jagat Singh Negi shared his valuable insights during the meeting, while representatives of various hydropower projects and stakeholders presented their views and suggestions before the Chief Minister.
The meeting was attended by Deputy Chief Whip Kewal Singh Pathania, MLAs Sunder Singh Thakur and Vinod Sultanpuri, Additional Chief Secretary K.K. Pant, Secretary to the Chief Minister Rakesh Kanwar, along with other senior government officers.
