New Delhi/Shimla: Himachal Pradesh’s Chief Minister Thakur Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu has once again hit out at the Centre for turning a blind eye to the state’s longstanding demand for a 'Green Bonus'.
In a fiery pitch at a high-level meeting with NITI Aayog in New Delhi today, the CM pressed for urgent recognition of Himachal’s critical role in conserving forests and providing eco-services to northern states, including the national capital, Delhi.
"We are the lungs of North India," Sukhu declared, urging the Aayog to fight for a differentiated financial model for hilly states like Himachal, whose needs are far more complex than those of the plains.
“While other states benefit from industrial growth, we are bearing the brunt of protecting natural resources that serve the entire nation—yet no one at the Centre seems to care.”
In a special meeting with NITI Aayog Vice Chairman Suman Bery, member V.K. Paul, and a panel of experts, Sukhu did not mince words as he demanded compensation for the state’s efforts in preserving its forest cover.
"Our forests are not just for Himachal, but for all of northern India," he said, making it clear that Himachal is owed a Green Bonus for the sacrifices made in the name of environmental conservation.
Sukhu also urged NITI Aayog to push for the rightful share of royalties from hydropower projects run by Central Public Sector Undertakings (CPSUs), which continue to benefit from Himachal's natural resources without fair compensation.
"It’s time the Centre stops ignoring our contributions and compensates us for what we provide to the entire country," he added, hinting at the mounting frustration over the Centre's apathy.
The Chief Minister also flagged the urgent need for better air and rail connectivity and raised alarms about the rising incidence of natural disasters and cancer cases in the state.
He called for immediate studies on these issues, warning that Himachal's unique vulnerabilities are being overlooked by the Centre.
The NITI Aayog panel, led by Suman Bery, has promised to study Himachal's case, but given the Centre's track record, skepticism remains high.
How long will Himachal continue to bear the environmental burdens for the rest of India while being denied its rightful dues?
It’s high time the Centre stops treating Himachal Pradesh like a forgotten stepchild. If New Delhi enjoys clean air, it’s thanks to the green cover of states like Himachal—and we deserve our share.
