The Himachal Pradesh government has been lauded for setting a precedent in protecting the state’s rights and resources, with the recent victory in the Bhakra-Beas Management Board (BBMB) case being described as a historical achievement. Technical Education Minister Rajesh Dharmani made these remarks in Bilaspur on Saturday, emphasizing the administration’s commitment to safeguarding the state’s legitimate interests.
Information was available with The Chenab Times that under the leadership of Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu, the government has undertaken a series of significant measures aimed at securing the state’s rights and economic well-being. These efforts have been characterized by a strong political resolve, robust legal representation, constructive inter-state dialogue, and astute strategic decision-making. These concerted actions have not only ensured the retrieval of long-standing entitlements for Himachal Pradesh but have also paved the way for the development of new revenue streams for the state exchequer.
Minister Dharmani highlighted the protracted dispute concerning Himachal Pradesh’s rightful share of 7.19 per cent electricity from the BBMB projects, a matter that had remained unresolved for decades. The Supreme Court’s verdict, delivered on November 6, mandated Punjab and Haryana to supply 11,973 million units of electricity to Himachal Pradesh over the ensuing 20 years, equating to approximately 598 million units annually. Crucially, the court also stipulated that a capital cost liability of Rs 420.77 crore would be adjusted against these electricity dues, thereby resolving a significant financial contention.
This landmark judicial decision is expected to empower the state to generate substantial revenue through the strategic utilization and sale of this additional electricity allocation. In a related development, the state government has successfully regained possession of the premium hotel Wildflower Hall, following a prolonged legal dispute. The hotel was taken back on March 31, 2025. An operational arrangement has been established for the property’s management for over the next 35 years, under which Himachal Pradesh is set to receive a 47.1 per cent share of its annual gross revenue. This agreement ensures a sustained and significant income stream for the state.
The minister further stated that the state government’s proactive and effective approach has also cleared the path for an upward revision of royalty from the Karcham-Wangtoo power project. The royalty is set to increase from the current 12 per cent to 18 per cent. This enhancement is projected to generate an additional annual income of approximately Rs 150 crore for Himachal Pradesh, further bolstering its financial resources.
Additionally, the government anticipates a notable boost to the state’s revenue through increased royalty payments from other eligible hydroelectric power projects. Significant progress has also been reported in the safeguarding of the state’s financial interests concerning the Kishau Multipurpose Dam Project. This initiative is expected to yield a financial benefit exceeding Rs 800 crore for Himachal Pradesh, underscoring the government’s success in securing economic advantages for the state.
The Chenab Times News Desk
