State Government Committed to Strengthen Industries: CM Sukhu.
Uninterrupted power supply to industries; new industrial policy to be introduced soon.
Shimla:
Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu today reaffirmed the state government’s commitment to strengthening the industrial sector and creating an investor-friendly ecosystem in Himachal Pradesh. He said that uninterrupted power supply would be ensured for industries and a new industrial policy would be introduced in the state in the near future.
The Chief Minister was interacting with CEOs and entrepreneurs from leading industries of India and abroad at Peterhoff, Shimla, during the three-day Him MSME Fest–2026 organized by the Industries Department. Detailed discussions were held on the expansion, diversification and promotion of industries in the state.
On the occasion, the state government signed 37 Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) with entrepreneurs for setting up industrial units involving an investment of around Rs. 10,000 crore.
Addressing the gathering, the Chief Minister said that the government is continuously taking new initiatives to develop a conducive investment climate so that Himachal Pradesh emerges as a reliable and attractive investment destination. He said the vision of the state government is to transform Himachal Pradesh into a strong economic hub with a focus on green industrialization, renewable energy, digital technologies, artificial intelligence and rural industrialization.
Highlighting the government’s commitment to clean energy and sustainable development, the Chief Minister said that all 22,000 petrol and diesel taxis in the state would be replaced with electric vehicles in a phased manner. For this purpose, a new scheme is being introduced under which a subsidy of 40 percent will be provided. He also informed that a tender would soon be issued for operating buses on green hydrogen fuel in the state.
The Chief Minister assured entrepreneurs that issues related to Section 118 would be resolved and that the textile industry would be promoted in the state. He said the government is focused on empowering existing industries, reducing logistics costs in industrial areas and strengthening infrastructure. He added that the state government has already deposited its full share for the Baddi–Chandigarh railway line with the central government.
Emphasizing tourism as a priority sector, the Chief Minister said that connectivity in the state is being improved. The land acquisition process for the Kangra airport will be completed by March 31 this year. To promote the hospitality sector, permission will be granted for opening 200 five-star hotels in the state.
The Chief Minister further announced that a world-class city, “Him Chandigarh,” would be developed near Chandigarh in Himachal Pradesh. He assured industrialists of a 24-hour uninterrupted power supply at the lowest possible rates and urged them to sign implementation agreements at the earliest.
Thakur Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu said that industrial infrastructure in the state is being continuously upgraded. Facilities such as the MSE Pharma Lab, MSME Technology Center, gas connectivity in major industrial areas, skill development centers in Baddi and Una, and CIPET are being developed. He said that the government’s long-term vision is to build a competitive state supported by a strong MSME base, sustainable industrial parks, a vibrant start-up culture and future-oriented skill development for youth.
Referring to a major achievement, the Chief Minister said that the Bulk Drug Park in Una has received final environmental clearance for an area of 568.75 hectares. With a capital cost of Rs. 2,071 crore, the park has the potential to attract investments of Rs. 8,000 crore to Rs. 10,000 crore and generate about 15,000 to 20,000 direct and indirect employment opportunities.
The Chief Minister said that interacting with industry leaders and learning from their experiences was an enriching and inspiring experience. He added that the state is moving in the right direction and has initiated meaningful dialogue with key stakeholders who will play a vital role in realizing the government’s vision. He assured entrepreneurs of full support from the state government in establishing and expanding their industrial ventures.
Industry Minister Harshvardhan Chauhan said that liberal and progressive policies are being framed to promote industrial development, employment generation and economic growth. He added that rules and procedures have been simplified and all possible assistance is being extended to entrepreneurs. He also highlighted various incentives being offered to industries.
Additional Chief Secretary (Industries) R.D. Nazim gave a detailed presentation on the initiatives taken for industrial promotion in the state, while Commissioner of Industries Dr. Yunus welcomed the Chief Minister and the participants.
Mayor Surinder Chauhan, Deputy Secretary NITI Aayog Arvind Kumar, senior officers and other dignitaries were also present on the occasion.
