Shimla, Aug 14,
Baldev Thakur, Secretary of the State Congress Committee, has commended Chief Minister Sukhwinder Singh Sukhu’s recent financial reforms but has also highlighted areas needing further attention. One of his primary concerns is the high number of IAS officers serving in Himachal Pradesh.
Thakur noted that the state, with just 12 districts, has over 112 IAS officers, which he considers excessive. He pointed out that these officers’ salaries and allowances are on par with those in much larger states, despite Himachal’s comparatively smaller size and fewer administrative responsibilities. Thakur suggested that reducing the IAS cadre could not only ease the state’s financial burden but also improve administrative efficiency.
Thakur also underscored other fiscal measures undertaken by the Sukhu administration. He mentioned recent reductions in electricity subsidies and changes to Himachal Road Transport fares for police personnel as steps aimed at cutting unnecessary expenses. He defended these measures, emphasizing that they are part of a broader strategy to prevent the misuse of subsidies and ensure they are aligned with actual needs. For example, the reduction in free bus fare for police personnel is intended to subsidize only genuine travel, reflecting actual usage.
Additionally, Thakur supported Sukhu’s likely decision to introduce a nominal water bill of Rs. 100 per household, arguing that it is crucial to maintain the Jal Shakti Department’s water schemes in the face of a growing population and environmental challenges.
Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu’s economic reforms have been lauded by many. Recently, former Union Minister Shanta Kumar and former Education Minister Radharaman Shastri also praised the government for its bold initiatives.
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