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Himachal Minister Seeks Higher Revenue Deficit Grant in Union Budget 2026

Himachal Pradesh Minister Harshwardhan Chauhan has expressed hope for a generous allocation, particularly for the Revenue Deficit Grant, in the upcoming Union Budget. He emphasized the need for substantial central assistance to expand the state's limited railway and airport infrastructure. The Minister also raised concerns about reduced import duties on apples, urging a restoration to 50% to protect Himachal's apple economy. The Budget is set to be presented by Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, marking her record ninth consecutive presentation.

Key Points: Himachal Minister's Budget Demands: Revenue Grant & Apple Duty

  • Higher Revenue Deficit Grant sought
  • Railway & airport expansion needed
  • Import duty cut on apples criticized
  • Budget to be presented by FM Sitharaman
3 min read

Himachal Pradesh Minister Harshwardhan Chauhan seeks higher Revenue Deficit Grant in Union Budget

Himachal Minister Harshwardhan Chauhan hopes for higher Revenue Deficit Grant, infrastructure funds, and import duty protection for apples in Union Budget.

"To save Himachal's apple economy, the import duty should be kept at 50 per cent. - Harshwardhan Chauhan"

Shimla Januar, y 31

Himachal Pradesh Minister Harshwardhan Chauhan on Saturday expressed hope that the Union Budget 2026-27 would provide a generous allocation to the state, particularly through the Revenue Deficit Grant, while also hoping for the Centre to address concerns related to the apple industry and infrastructure development.

Speaking to ANI ahead of the Union Budget presentation in Parliament, Chauhan said, "Tomorrow, the Finance Minister will present the Union Budget. We hope that Himachal Pradesh will receive a generous allocation, especially through our Revenue Deficit Grant (RDG). For the current financial year 2025-26, our Revenue Deficit Grant is Rs 3,200 crore. We expect a good Revenue Deficit Grant this time."

The Minister highlighted the need for improved connectivity in the state, noting that railway and airport expansion has been limited.

"The expansion of railways and airports in the state has been very limited. We hope that the Union Budget will provide substantial assistance for the expansion of railway and airport infrastructure," he added.

Chauhan also raised concerns over the reduction in import duties on apples from European countries and New Zealand.

"The import duty on apples from European countries has been reduced from 50 per cent to 20 per cent, and for countries like New Zealand, it has been reduced from 50 per cent to 25 per cent. To save Himachal's apple economy, the import duty should be kept at 50 per cent. The Chief Minister has also presented the entire situation before the Finance Minister and other ministers," he said.

The Union Budget 2026-27 is set to be presented by Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman on Sunday. This year, the Budget presentation falls on a weekend. FM Sitharaman is set to present a record ninth consecutive Union Budget on February 1, marking a significant milestone in India's parliamentary and economic history.

The Centre earlier this week released the 2025-26 economic survey, noting that India's economic growth remains resilient, with strong domestic demand as the main anchor, even as the global environment remains fragile.

Taking an optimistic view of the economy, the Economic Survey estimated India's potential growth at around 7 per cent. It also projected that India's GDP growth in FY27 is likely to remain in the range of 6.8 per cent to 7.2 per cent, reflecting the economy's medium-term strength supported by reforms and macroeconomic stability.

The Survey noted that while global economic conditions remain uncertain and fragile, India's overall outlook continues to be positive. It highlighted that India's growth is holding up better than expected relative to many other economies, although risks remain elevated amid global uncertainties.

- ANI

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Reader Comments

S
Sarah B
As someone who visits Himachal often, the infrastructure does need serious improvement. The roads and connectivity are a major bottleneck for both tourism and local businesses. Hope the budget addresses this.
A
Arjun K
The apple industry point is crucial. Himachal's apples are a source of pride and livelihood for thousands. Why are we making it easier for foreign apples to flood our market? This needs a rethink at the national level. #SupportLocalFarmers
P
Priyanka N
While I understand the state's needs, there has to be fiscal responsibility from the state government as well. Simply asking for higher grants every year is not a sustainable model. They should also focus on improving their own revenue collection.
V
Vikram M
Railway expansion in the hills is long overdue. It's not just about tourism; it's about integrating remote areas with the mainstream economy. A proper rail network can transform the state's logistics.
K
Kavya N
Hope the Finance Minister listens. Hill states like Himachal have unique challenges and higher costs for development. The Revenue Deficit Grant is essential for them to provide basic services. Fingers crossed for a good budget! 🤞

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