NewKerala.com

Himachal CM's Warning to Hydropower Firms: Pay Land Revenue or Face Action

Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu has made it clear that hydropower developers must pay land revenue to the state. He emphasized this payment is the state's legitimate right and that all operational projects must comply. The government is willing to discuss rationalizing the payment rates to find a fair solution. A dedicated meeting for projects of 25 MW capacity is already scheduled for mid-January to address these issues further.

Key Points: Himachal CM Sukhu Mandates Land Revenue from Hydropower Developers

  • CM Sukhu states paying land revenue is a legitimate right of the state from developers
  • All operational hydropower projects must ensure timely payment of land revenue
  • Government is open to discussions to rationalize the rates for land revenue
  • A follow-up meeting for 25 MW capacity projects is scheduled for January 12 in Shimla
2 min read

Hydropower project developers bound to pay land revenue, says Himachal CM

Himachal Pradesh CM Sukhvinder Sukhu directs all hydropower project operators to pay land revenue, a legitimate right of the state, while promising rationalized rates.

Hydropower project developers bound to pay land revenue, says Himachal CM
"It is the responsibility of hydropower project developers operating in the state to pay land revenue, which is a legitimate right of the state. - Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu"

Shimla, Jan 3

Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu on Saturday chaired a meeting with developers of hydropower projects in the state, followed by detailed discussions on the assessment of land revenue.

The Chief Minister said that the state is blessed with abundant natural resources, emphasising that it is the responsibility of hydropower project developers operating in the state to pay land revenue, which is a legitimate right of the state.

He underlined that all operational hydropower projects must adhere to regulations and ensure the timely payment of land revenue.

The Chief Minister said that discussions could be held to rationalise the rates for land revenue payment.

It was informed that a meeting regarding hydropower projects of 25 MW capacity would be held on January 12 in Shimla under the chairmanship of State Revenue Minister Jagat Singh Negi.

The Chief Minister highlighted that the state government is committed to ensuring optimal utilisation of Himachal Pradesh's resources for the welfare and development of its people.

He assured that the government would also provide effective solutions to the challenges faced by hydropower developers.

The Chief Minister noted that the state government has taken several decisions aimed at making Himachal Pradesh self-reliant and most prosperous, highlighting that the state has firmly asserted its rights with the Centre and neighbouring states as well.

The government has demanded permanent membership for the state in the BBMB projects and the early release of approximately Rs 6,500 crore as arrears due for the period from 1966 to 2011.

Revenue Minister Negi shared his insights during the meeting, and various stakeholders also presented their perspectives before the Chief Minister.

The meeting was attended by Deputy Chief Whip Kewal Singh Pathania, MLAs Sunder Singh Thakur and Vinod Sultanpuri, Additional Chief Secretary K.K. Pant, Secretary to the Chief Minister Rakesh Kanwar, and other senior officers.

- IANS

Share this article:

Reader Comments

P
Priyanka N
Good move, but the government must ensure this doesn't become another bureaucratic hurdle that scares away future investment. They talk about rationalising rates, which is key. The process needs to be transparent and fair for both sides.
A
Aman W
Finally! Our mountains and rivers are not free for corporate use. The ₹6500 crore arrears from the Centre is a huge point. HP has been short-changed for decades. Hope this government has the guts to follow through.
S
Sarah B
As someone who has visited Himachal many times, it's crucial that development is sustainable. Ensuring companies pay for the land they use is basic accountability. The funds should directly benefit the local communities affected by these projects.
V
Vikram M
Land revenue is one thing, but what about the environmental cost? These projects disrupt ecosystems and local livelihoods. The revenue collected must be earmarked for environmental restoration and compensating affected villagers, not just state coffers.
K
Karan T
The commitment to make HP self-reliant is the right vision. Hydro power is our strength. Using its revenue wisely can fund better infrastructure and create jobs for our youth so they don't have to migrate to plains. Let's see action now.

We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.

Leave a Comment

Minimum 50 characters 0/50