Shimla, October 25: Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu on Sunday announced a proposed investment of ₹10,000 crore to ₹15,000 crore in tourism over the next five years, focusing on high-end tourism, infrastructure development and improved air connectivity.
The announcement comes as the government seeks to position Himachal as a premium tourist destination. However, the proposed outlay raises questions about funding sources, project-wise allocations and the likely economic returns for the state.
Sukhu said ₹3,000 crore was being spent on land acquisition for the expansion of Kangra airport. The government is also providing ₹35 crore under the Viability Gap Funding mechanism to support flight operations in the state.
The government plans to connect all district headquarters through heliport facilities and introduce connecting flights from Shimla to improve tourist accessibility. The expansion of Kangra airport is expected to facilitate larger aircraft and boost tourist arrivals.
The proposed investment will need a clear implementation roadmap, including funding commitments, project timelines and measurable outcomes. The government has yet to provide a detailed breakdown of the planned expenditure.
The focus on high-end tourism also raises questions about how its benefits will reach local businesses, homestay operators and communities beyond established tourist centres. Improved connectivity and premium infrastructure could increase tourism revenue, but wider economic gains will depend on local participation and the distribution of investment.
Sukhu said 60 eco-tourism sites had been leased out, generating ₹22 crore in revenue for the state exchequer. Details of the revenue period and the environmental and employment outcomes were not provided.
Rural Development and Panchayati Raj Minister Anirudh Singh said efforts were underway to make Naldehra Golf Course financially self-sustainable. He added that the course had been opened to tourists and that the government had provided ₹1.82 crore for its development.
The Chief Minister described Naldehra Golf Course as one of Himachal’s scenic golf destinations and reiterated the government’s commitment to making the state self-reliant through policy changes.
More than 80 players participated in the Koti Golf Cup-2026, held on October 24 and 25 at Naldehra. Sukhu presented trophies to the winners at the closing ceremony.
