Himachal Assembly Prepares for Budget Session Amid Tight Security

The Himachal Pradesh Assembly is gearing up for its budget session, with the first phase scheduled from February 16 to 18. After these three sittings, the House will go into recess until the government submits legislative business for the second phase.

Speaker Kuldeep Singh Pathania, after reviewing preparations, confirmed that the session will begin with the Governor’s address, followed by discussions and eventually the presentation of the budget. He noted that the suspension of the Revenue Deficit Grant (RDG) by the Centre has forced the state to rework its budget, which may take additional time.

Security arrangements are being taken seriously. Around 500 personnel will be deployed, with strict parking rules and controlled access to ministers and officials. Entry passes will be handwritten this time, as the Assembly transitions from the e‑Vidhan system to the new National e‑Vidhan (NeVA) platform.

For visitors and locals, the session means restricted access, but for legislators, it marks the beginning of crucial debates on Himachal’s financial future. With heightened security and anticipation around the budget, the Assembly is set to become the center of attention once again.