Naresh Chauhan confident of a positive outcomes from Union Power Minister Meeting with Sukhu

Principal Advisor (Media) to the Chief Minister, Naresh Chauhan, addressed the media today, providing insights into a recent meeting between Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu and Union Power Minister Manohar Lal Khattar. Chauhan described the discussions, focused on power and housing concerns, as cordial and expressed optimism that positive developments would emerge. He emphasized the Chief Minister’s commitment to safeguarding Himachal Pradesh’s interests.

Chauhan disclosed that the state is prepared to assume control over several hydro projects from SJVNL, including the 210 MW Luhri Phase-1, the 382 MW Sunni Project, and the 66 MW Dhaulasidh Project. He explained that SJVNL has not fully adhered to the energy policy, and Himachal Pradesh is keen to secure the projects to accelerate state development. Chauhan noted that Himachal’s pending 7.9% share in the BBMB for the past 15 years could greatly support local infrastructure projects.

The Advisor also reiterated that the state government would reimburse SJVNL for project costs if it takes over. He criticized SJVNL for starting construction on these projects without formalizing an implementation agreement and urged that Himachal Pradesh rightfully deserves a share of its water resources. Following the meeting, the Union Minister directed SJVNL officials to deliver a definitive response by January 15, 2025.

Chauhan further explained that Chief Minister Sukhu has appealed for the Union government’s support in reclaiming the 110 MW Shanan Project in Mandi district from Punjab, as its lease with Punjab has expired. Chauhan argued that the Shanan Project region was never part of erstwhile Punjab, thus exempting it from the Punjab Reorganization Act of 1966. The Union Minister committed to reviewing the Act and considering appropriate actions.

Chauhan criticized the previous Jai Ram government for disregarding the state’s energy policy in its agreements with private power projects. He emphasized that Himachal’s policy is for projects to provide 12% royalty for the first 12 years, 18% for the next 18 years, and 30% for the subsequent 10 years. However, the former administration agreed to far lower royalties of 4% and 12% with SJVNL on these projects. Chauhan asserted that if SJVNL is unwilling to accept the revised energy policy terms, the state government will reclaim these projects. He noted that the state suffered significantly from the policies of the previous government.

Reaffirming the Chief Minister’s determination to protect Himachal’s rights, Chauhan urged opposition leaders to rectify past mistakes and avoid hindering the state’s development. He commented that the BJP currently lacks both leadership and direction, which has created internal conflicts. Chauhan advised BJP leaders to collaborate with the state government for Himachal’s benefit.

Responding to recent media reports on refreshments served during a Police Department event, Chauhan clarified that it was an internal matter and criticized the spread of misinformation, dismissing it as an attempt to politicize the issue.