Himachal Pradesh Introduces Orphan and Widow Cess on Fuel

Himachal Pradesh is poised to introduce a new cess on petrol and diesel, focusing on aiding orphans and widows. The amendment bill was proposed by Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu in the Legislative Assembly, aimed at establishing a dedicated welfare fund for these vulnerable populations.

The cess will be applied on the initial sale of petrol and diesel within the state. It will be capped at a maximum rate of Rs 5 per litre, and will only be charged when oil marketing companies first sell the fuel to dealers.

Emphasizing the government's commitment to social welfare, Chief Minister Sukhu stated that the initiative is meant to ensure a continuous and stable source of funding to assist orphans and widows. Once passed, the bill will move to the Lok Bhawan for final approval, after which it will be enacted as law.