The Hindu Business Line : Himachal annual Plan pegged at Rs 2,400 cr

The Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister, Mr Prem Kumar Dhumal (left) With the Deputy Chairman of Planning Commission, Mr Montek Singh Ahluwalia in New Delhi on Wednesday. —

New Delhi, Feb. 13 The annual Plan of Himachal Pradesh for 2008-09 has been pegged at Rs 2,400 crore, inclusive of additional Central assistance of Rs 450 crore for projects of importance to the State.

This was agreed here at a meeting between the Deputy Chairman Planning Commission, Mr Montek Singh Ahluwalia, and the Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister, Mr Prem Kumar Dhumal, on Wednesday.

In his initial remarks, Mr Ahluwalia complimented the State Government for implementing the development programmes in totality despite a very difficult fiscal situation. He said the State has succeeded in maintaining healthy growth performance and good human development index. Performance in social sector specially Sarva Shiksha Abhiyan and mid-day meal was appreciated.

rural electrification

It was pointed out that the State has achieved 100 per cent rural electrification target.

The State was asked to model district planning in a way that optimum benefit can be taken from the Central scheme.

In view of vast potential for the growth of horticulture, floriculture and herbs, the State should help in setting up marketing network. Focused attention should also be given to promotion of handicrafts.

major objectives

The Chief Minister said that the major objectives of the Eleventh Plan of Himachal Pradesh would include the provision of essential public services, increasing farm incomes, developing better infrastructure, nurturing human capital, protecting the environment and improving governance.

The focus would remain on reduction of poverty, enhancing equity among various sections of the society and a balanced regional development.

The Chief Minister suggested that Centre should allow States to introduce a nominal generation tax on power produced.

He also sought compensation for not exploiting forest wealth in national interest. Setting up of AIIMS level institutions, National Institute of Fashion Technology, IIM and Institute of Information Technology were also pleaded by the State in its presentation to the Plan panel.

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