Shimla, Oct 11
On the eve of Dussehra, Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu delivered a significant announcement aimed at providing financial relief to state employees and pensioners.
In a press conference held in Shimla, he articulated his government’s unwavering commitment to prioritize the welfare of common citizens, including farmers and women, while assuring them that no new taxes would be imposed.
In a noteworthy policy shift, however, Sukhu clarified that the government would cease offering subsidies to industrial and commercial sectors.
He stated, “Around 22,000 industrial units and commercial establishments will now have to manage increased costs for water and electricity without state assistance.” This move reflects the administration’s focus on providing targeted support to those in genuine financial distress, particularly those struggling to pay their utility bills.
With concerns swirling about the state’s fiscal stability, Sukhu took the opportunity to dispel rumors of a financial crisis, emphasizing, “There is no overdraft situation; our financial system remains robust and is linked with the Reserve Bank of India.” He characterized the negative narratives propagated by detractors as baseless, asserting that the state’s financial health is both stable and well-managed.
Addressing the pressing issue of employee compensation, Sukhu confirmed the impending release of a delayed four percent dearness allowance (DA) installment, which has been overdue since January 2023.
The government would pay salaries and pensions to the employees and pensioners on October 28 this month. Apart from this, Sukhu has also announced to pay four percent DA installment to the employees of the state. This DA installment was due from January 1, 2023. Two installments of DA of the employees are still pending and another installment is to be announced by the Center for the central government employees.
While announcing this relief, he also noted that approximately 1,200 employees who opted NPS awaiting further adjustments would receive their DA in alignment with announcements from the central government regarding similar payments for central employees.
In a pointed critique, Sukhu took aim at the Leader of the Opposition, questioning their silence on the unfulfilled promises of Rs 10,000 crore in freebies made during the 2022 Assembly elections. He expressed disappointment with the media for not holding the opposition accountable for these commitments, contrasting it with his administration’s responsible fiscal management.
Concluding his address, Sukhu reiterated his government’s commitment to transparent governance and maintaining fiscal discipline. “Our goal is to efficiently deliver essential services while ensuring accountability,” he remarked. The Chief Minister firmly rejected the accusations of implementing a “toilet tax,” aimed at discrediting his administration, and called out the Leader of the Opposition for misleading central authorities, including BJP president JP Nadda.
Highlighting the state’s financial progress, Sukhu disclosed a remarkable Rs 2,200 crore increase in revenue since assuming office. He expressed optimism about revealing further details of this growth after March 31, 2025.
Moreover, he assured state employees that their temporarily withheld salaries and pensions would be released just in time for Diwali on October 28.
This strategic move not only demonstrates the administration’s commitment to employees but also reflects an annual saving of Rs 48 crore, which is not indicative of financial emergency, as portrayed by critics and certain media outlets.
With these announcements, Chief Minister Sukhu seeks to foster a transparent, accountable, and financially sound government that prioritizes the welfare of its citizens while navigating challenges ahead.
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