SHIMLA: In a a move towards self-reliance, Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu issued a stern warning to major power companies, SJVN (Satluj Jal Vidyut Nigam) and NTPC (National Thermal Power Corporation).
CM Sukhu made it clear that if these companies do not comply with the state's demands for royalties and project returns, the government is prepared to take drastic action.
The Chief Minister emphasized that the state's government is demanding 12%, 18%, and 30% royalties on power generated, and that all power projects should be returned to the state after 40 years of operation.
He stated, "If SJVN and NTPC do not accept these terms, we will take back all the three projects in question." He further noted that the state cabinet has already made a decision on this matter, and work on three such projects has already begun, with significant progress reported in many areas.
These measures could bring in an estimated revenue of Rs 2,500 crore to Rs 3,000 crore for the state every year.
"We have won the first battle by securing 12% royalty, and we have refused to allow the companies to benefit from the 2% GST they had previously agreed upon and will continue to give 1.5 per cent towards LADA under CSR," he said.
CM said the cloud bursts and dams burst are at sometimes killing people and ruing properties in the state.
He blamed the previous the BJP government for surrendering these projects to the companies without bothering about the interests of Himachal.
Sukhu also addressed the broader issue of climate change, which is triggering natural disasters in Himachal.
He expressed deep concern over the rising temperatures and unprecedented weather patterns in Himachal Pradesh.
"Climate change is a major challenge," he said, citing recent disasters in Samej and unusual weather patterns like heavy rainfall in typically dry regions such as Jaisalmer and unexpected climate shifts in Spiti and Kinnaur.
The Chief Minister urged the State Government and the Department of Science and Technology to seriously study these issues and develop strategies to tackle the increasing frequency of cloudbursts and other climate-related problems.
"We must take this issue seriously and consider all the good ideas presented," he asserted.
Through these strong statements, CM Sukhu has signaled the state's firm stance on securing its rightful share of resources and addressing the environmental challenges that lie ahead.
