Himachal Pradesh Pushes for Major Infrastructure Developments and Rural Employment Boost
The state’s government, along with various sectors of society, has emphasised the urgent need for an expansion of infrastructure, employment opportunities, and support for rural industries. With several crucial projects on the table, including the development of airports, railways, and the restoration of flood-damaged roads, the people of Himachal are advocating for focused investments to sustain growth and stability.
A major point of focus is the need for an international-standard airport in the state. Despite its potential as a leading tourist destination, Himachal lacks the infrastructure to accommodate international flights, which limits its global accessibility. Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu has underscored the importance of the federal government fully funding the construction of such an airport to open the doors to international tourism and trade. The state government has expressed concerns about shouldering the entire financial burden, calling for federal support to expedite the project.
In addition to the airport, the state is pushing for the Centre’s full funding of the Bhanupalli-Beri and Chandigarh-Baddi railway lines. At present, Himachal Pradesh bears 50% of the project cost, including expenses for land acquisition. These rail links are essential for improving connectivity between key regions, enhancing the transportation of goods, and providing a reliable travel option for the state’s residents and tourists alike. The expansion of the railway network is also seen as a critical factor in boosting local economies and creating job opportunities. Rural employment is another area where the state is seeking greater attention. Shepherds and weavers from Baijnath in Kangra are advocating for more budget allocations to create jobs in rural areas. With many communities dependent on traditional industries, such as handloom weaving, there is a strong demand for financial support for local cooperative societies. The handloom weavers in Mandi have specifically called for more provisions within Industrial Training Institutes (ITIs) to offer skill development programmes, which would help preserve and promote traditional crafts while providing economic opportunities for rural workers.
Tourism, a key economic driver in Himachal, also faces challenges in terms of infrastructure and facilities. Stakeholders in the tourism industry, particularly in Kullu and Manali, are calling for the expansion of the railway network and airports to accommodate the increasing number of visitors. Budhi Prakash, a tourism entrepreneur, highlighted the importance of improving transport networks to make the region more accessible to tourists. In addition, winter sports enthusiasts are hoping for investment in developing ski slopes in the Manali area, which would enhance the state’s reputation as a winter sports hub and attract more tourists during the colder months. In the wake of the 2023 floods, many roads in the state have been severely damaged and remain in need of repair. Perm Thakur, another tourism entrepreneur, urged for additional funds to restore these vital roadways. The delays in road repair have hindered both local travel and tourism activities, highlighting the need for quicker interventions to restore connectivity.
Alongside these issues, horticulturists from the Shimla region are calling for greater subsidies on agricultural inputs, including direct transfers to growers. They are also requesting more funding for the Market Intervention Scheme, which helps manage the prices of horticultural products. Clearing pending dues for growers has also been a priority, as it ensures the financial stability of the farming community in the state. Himachal Pradesh’s calls for increased infrastructure development, better rural employment opportunities, and support for local industries reflect the broader needs of its people. With a focus on expanding tourism, improving connectivity, and supporting traditional livelihoods, the state is looking to secure its future growth and sustainability. The state government and its citizens are hopeful that the necessary steps will be taken to address these pressing issues.
