New Delhi, Feb 5 (NationPress) BJP MP and former Union Minister Anurag Thakur commended the Modi government for the remarkable financial support and infrastructure initiatives directed towards Himachal Pradesh. He asserted that the state has witnessed unparalleled assistance from the Centre, stating that since Narendra Modi assumed office in 2014, significant measures have been enacted for its advancement.

In a media interaction, Thakur disclosed that the Modi government has allocated over ₹76,799 crore to Himachal Pradesh in various forms of assistance and infrastructure endeavors. He criticized the Congress party, pointing out that during the UPA administration, Himachal Pradesh was deprived of its special category status, which Prime Minister Modi has since reinstated.

He emphasized that this restored status has greatly benefited the state, as the Centre now covers 90% of project costs, leaving the state to contribute just 10%.

The BJP MP noted that numerous significant projects have been initiated in Himachal Pradesh during the tenure of the NDA government. Currently, railway projects exceeding ₹13,000 crore are underway, set to enhance connectivity and stimulate future economic growth. He accused the Congress of misleading the populace by presenting inaccurate statistics.

Reflecting on the Covid era, Thakur mentioned a new initiative to provide special support to the state, contrasting it with the UPA government’s inaction. “What did the UPA government do? Nothing! In comparison, in the last five to six years, the Modi government has granted ₹8,309 crore in assistance,” he stated.

Highlighting investments in health and industry, Thakur revealed that the Centre has allocated around ₹720 crore for medical colleges. Additionally, ₹1,000 crore has been designated for a bulk drug park in Una, while over ₹300 crore will support a medical device park in Rajgarh. He insisted that the Centre has ensured ample funding for development projects.

Addressing concerns regarding the revenue deficit grant, Thakur clarified that the grant has not ceased solely for Himachal Pradesh, but for 17 states nationwide, rendering accusations of bias against the state unfounded.

In a pointed critique of the state government, the BJP MP asserted that Himachal Pradesh is grappling with substantial debt. He alleged that the state government has accrued excessive loans in the past three years and is failing to make meaningful efforts to boost its revenue, leading to a deteriorating financial situation.