Shimla, March 28,
The eighth session of the fourteenth Himachal Pradesh Legislative Assembly concluded successfully today, with Speaker Kuldeep Singh Pathania announcing an impressive productivity rate of 110%. Addressing the media after the session’s conclusion, he stated that the budget session, which commenced on March 10 and concluded on March 28, comprised 15 meetings spanning approximately 73 hours.
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During the session, the House paid tribute to former Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh, former Minister and MP Kishan Kapoor, and former Minister Kewal Singh Pathania. The government responded to a total of 845 starred and 289 unstarred questions, ensuring active legislative engagement.
Significant discussions took place under various legislative rules, including Rule 61 (2 subjects), Rule 62 (10 subjects), Rule 101 (7 subjects), and Rule 130 (14 subjects). The Assembly also designated March 22 and 27 as private members’ working days, facilitating discussions initiated by non-government members. The budget estimates for 2025-26 were debated on March 24-25, and the budget was passed by guillotine on March 26. Additionally, 24 issues were raised during Zero Hour, with meaningful discussions held on 15 of them.
A total of 10 government bills were introduced and passed, including two major legislations—the Himachal Pradesh Organized Crime (Prevention and Control) Bill, 2025, and the Himachal Pradesh Narcotics and Controlled Substances (Prevention, De-addiction and Rehabilitation) Bill, 2025.
Highlighting public engagement, Speaker Pathania noted that 1,180 students from various educational institutions observed the House proceedings, reflecting youth interest in the democratic process.
Comparing the winter session’s productivity of 106% with the current budget session’s 110%, Pathania credited smooth proceedings to the constructive cooperation of ruling and opposition members. He extended gratitude to Chief Minister Thakur Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu, Leader of Opposition Jai Ram Thakur, Parliamentary Affairs Minister Harsh Vardhan Chauhan, Deputy Speaker Vinay Kumar, and all officials involved. He also acknowledged the media for ensuring the Assembly’s deliberations reached the public effectively.
Concluding his address, Speaker Pathania extended warm wishes for the upcoming Chaitra Navratri and the Hindu New Year.
