Himachal's Revenue Deficit Grant Crisis: Political Controversy Amid Economic Challenges

The ongoing financial crisis in Himachal Pradesh has sparked intense debate in the state assembly following the central government's decision to end the Revenue Deficit Grant (RDG). This move has led to a heated exchange between the ruling Congress and the opposition BJP, with both sides trading accusations of politicizing the issue.

Parliamentary Affairs and Industry Minister Harshwardhan Chauhan criticized the discontinuation of the RDG as detrimental to the state's economy, warning of significant tax revenue reductions. Meanwhile, Opposition Leader Jai Ram Thakur urged the government to curb wasteful expenses and reassess appointments within the administration.

Amid calls for fiscal responsibility, Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu defended existing state schemes and policies, vowing to strengthen rather than privatize the State Electricity Board and maintain the Old Pension Scheme, despite the financial challenges ahead. The assembly remains divided over the best approach to navigate the economic storm.