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Himachal Speaker Addresses Economic Strain After Revenue Grant Halt

Himachal Pradesh Assembly Speaker Kuldeep Singh Pathania stated the state is navigating a difficult economic period following the discontinuation of the Revenue Deficit Grant. He clarified the situation does not constitute a financial emergency but requires collective responsibility from all MLAs, ministers, and officials. Pathania welcomed the government's proposal for salary deferment while stressing the need to protect lower-level workers. A detailed discussion on the budget and the state's financial position is scheduled to begin in the Assembly soon.

Key Points: Himachal Economic Challenge After Revenue Deficit Grant Stopped

  • Revenue Deficit Grant discontinuation impacts state
  • Speaker denies financial emergency
  • Salary deferment called a welcome move
  • Budget session to see detailed discussion
2 min read

Himachal facing difficult phase following discontinuation of Revenue Deficit Grant: Assembly Speaker

Himachal Assembly Speaker says state faces difficult economic phase after RDG discontinuation, calls for collective responsibility, and discusses budget session.

"The state is passing through a difficult economic situation. After the RDG was stopped, it had a major impact. - Kuldeep Singh Pathania"

Shimla, March 21

Himachal Pradesh Assembly Speaker Kuldeep Singh Pathania on Saturday said the state is going through a difficult economic phase following the discontinuation of the Revenue Deficit Grant and asserted that the situation does not amount to a financial emergency.

Speaking with ANI in Shimla, the Speaker also addressed the proceedings during the budget session, including objections raised by the opposition over certain remarks made in the House.

"A word I used during the proceedings was objected to by the opposition. Considering their concern, I removed that word from the official record," Pathania said.

He said the budget session was lengthy, with the Chief Minister's speech running over 100 pages and noted that the House had to be adjourned temporarily to allow members a break.

"The session was quite long. I assessed the situation in the House, and with agreement from both sides, it was adjourned for lunch and later resumed," he said.

Referring to the broader economic situation, the Speaker said the state has been impacted significantly due to the RDG move and called for collective responsibility among all stakeholders.

"The state is passing through a difficult economic situation. After the RDG was stopped, it had a major impact. All of us MLAs, ministers, officials have a responsibility to work in the interest of Himachal Pradesh," he said.

Welcoming the government's move on salary deferment, Pathania termed it a necessary step under the circumstances.

"If salary deferment has been proposed, it is a welcome move. At the same time, the interests of lower-level workers like Class III, Class IV, ASHA and Anganwadi workers must be protected," he added.

The Speaker emphasised that while challenges remain, the situation is manageable.

"I do not think the state is in an emergency. It is a difficult time, and we will face it together," he said.

He added that a detailed discussion on the budget and the state's financial position would begin in the Assembly in the coming days, with both treasury and opposition benches expected to present their views.

"The people of Himachal Pradesh will stand up for their rights, and the House will deliberate on all aspects," Pathania said.

- ANI

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Reader Comments

P
Priya S
The Speaker is right to highlight protecting Class III, IV, ASHA, and Anganwadi workers. These are the backbone of our rural services. Any salary deferment must start from the top—MLAs and ministers should take the biggest cut first. Lead by example!
A
Aman W
It's good that the Speaker removed the objectionable word from the record. Maintaining decorum in the Assembly is important, especially during tough times. Now all parties need to work together, not just point fingers. Jai Himachal!
S
Sarah B
While I appreciate the Speaker's calm tone, calling it a "difficult phase" feels like an understatement. When grants are stopped and salaries are deferred, it's a crisis for ordinary families. Hope the detailed budget discussion brings real solutions, not just political speeches.
V
Vikram M
This is the result of poor financial planning by the state government over the years. You can't always depend on central grants. Time to boost our own revenue through better tourism policies and supporting local apple farmers. Self-reliance is the key.
M
Meera T
As a teacher in Shimla, I'm worried. If salaries are deferred, how will middle-class families manage? The cost of living in hill stations is already high. The government must ensure this is a temporary measure with a clear plan to restore payments soon.

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