TNR News Network
Shimla: Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu reached New Delhi on Tuesday evening for a two-day visit aimed at strengthening the state’s financial position.
He is scheduled to meet the 16th Finance Commission Chairman Dr. Arvind Panagariya for the third time, pressing for an increase in the Revenue Deficit Grant (RDG) for hill states. Sukhu will highlight the unique challenges of mountainous regions, where infrastructure development costs remain disproportionately high.
Meetings with Union Ministers planned
During his stay, the Chief Minister has sought appointments with several Union Ministers. One of the key agendas includes seeking clearance to provide one bigha of land to those who lost their homes and land in the recent natural calamity.
Sukhu is likely to discuss this matter with the Union Environment and Forest Minister. The 15th Finance Commission’s cuts to Himachal’s RDG, Sukhu has said, pushed the state into financial distress for five years. With the new Commission’s recommendations set to take effect from April 2026, he is lobbying early for better allocations.
Congress reorganisation on cards
Sukhu’s Delhi trip has also stirred political circles within the ruling Congress. Party insiders believe he may meet the top leadership, including Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge, to push for an early organisational revamp. The Pradesh Congress, as well as its district and block-level bodies, have remained dissolved for over 10 months, slowing down political mobilisation in the state.
The Chief Minister is scheduled to return to Kangra on September 12, where he will attend a programme at Tanda Medical College.
