Issues of Liquor vending project  compensation resonate in Himachal Assembly 

Himachal Pradesh Assembly witnessed lively question-and-answer replies during the budget session on Monday. Members raised the issue of Liquor vending, land compensation, and employment generation, crucial concerns of communities affected by development projects.

MLAs actively raise their constituents’ issues in the Assembly, seeking government intervention and solutions.

Replying to a query about liquor vending Harshvardhan Chauhan said that the state government got improvement in revenue collection from the vending of liquor contracts Rs 443Cr was increased from last year and milk cess levied last year on the sale of Liquor generated Ts 95 Cr and expected Rs 105 Cr. He said that Government earmarked Rs 1450 Cr from liquor excise however Rs 1700 Cr revenue was already collected. He said that compared to the previous BJP rule which kept on renewing the license of existing vendors this government has issued new liquor vending which is likely to get a major flip in the revenue from excise and taxation.

CSR funds are seen as a potential source of development in project-affected areas, but their proper utilization remains a focus.

The government acknowledges the need for land allocation for house construction in rain-affected regions and explores options under existing legal frameworks.

Progress in educational infrastructure development, including the introduction of PG courses, is a key area of focus for the government.

MLA of Anni assembly Lokinder Kumar raised concerns about inadequate compensation and lack of employment opportunities for project-affected communities in Anni. 

He demanded consultation with local MLAs while deciding compensation packages with companies and contractors.

Minister Harshvardhan Chauhan assured consultation with MLAs and highlighted efforts to utilize CSR funds for development in affected areas. 

He stated the government would pursue the release of CSR funds from NTPC for both the Sundernagar and Sarkaghat areas.

MLAs also emphasized the need to provide land for house construction to landless rain-affected people in Sarkaghat.

Minister Harshvardhan Chauhan acknowledged the land limitations due to the Forest Clearance Act (FCA). He mentioned exploring options under the Disaster Management and Forest Rights Act (FRA) to assist landless families. 

He also informed about Rs 12 crore already allocated for reconstruction work.

MLA Satpal Singh Sati queried about the utilization of CSR funds from the Kol-dam project in Sundernagar and surrounding areas.

Minister Harshvardhan Chauhan emphasized the government’s intent to ensure proper utilization of CSR funds and promised to raise the matter with NTPC if needed.

MLA Rajinder Rana inquired about the progress of Sujanpur Tira College and the possibility of starting PG courses.

Education Minister Rohit Thakur provided an update on finalizing the modalities for the college and confirmed permission for starting PG courses.