Himachal Pradesh's 2025-26 Budget: A Focus on Development and Welfare

The Himachal Pradesh Assembly approved the 2025-26 budget, authorizing Rs 62,387.61 crore expenditure. The budget emphasizes development, welfare, and green energy, with no new taxes. Key allocations include 45% for salaries and pensions, and plans to create 25,000 jobs. The estimated budget deficit is Rs 6,390 crore.

The Himachal Pradesh Assembly has passed the annual budget for fiscal year 2025-26, allowing the government to utilize Rs 62,387.61 crore from the Consolidated Fund. The Appropriation Bill, accompanying the budget, sees the house consent to finance various sectors.

Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu, who presented the budget on March 17, 2025, ensured that the budget was free from new taxes. Emphasis has been placed on developmental works, which account for 24% of the budget, alongside significant allocations for salaries, pensions, and subsidies.

Notably, the budget introduced several initiatives, including the creation of 25,000 jobs and enhancement of benefits for employees. The fiscal and budget deficits stand at Rs 10,338 crore and Rs 6,390 crore respectively. The budget highlights a strong focus on tourism, rural development, and green energy.

(With inputs from agencies.)