Chief Minister Sukhu Highlights Himachal Pradesh's Economic Resilience in Assembly
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
Shimla, March 20 (NationPress) The economy of Himachal Pradesh is on a robust and resilient growth path, as stated by Chief Minister Sukhvinder Sukhu on Friday.
Presenting the Economic Survey for 2021-22 in the Assembly, CM Sukhu, who also manages the finance portfolio, revealed that according to preliminary estimates for 2025-26, the state's Gross State Domestic Product (GSDP) at current prices is projected to reach approximately Rs 2.54 lakh crore, showcasing a commendable growth of around 10.1% compared to the previous year.
In real terms, the state's economic growth is anticipated to be about 8.3%, demonstrating consistent economic activity across essential sectors despite global uncertainties and climatic obstacles.
“This achievement underscores the intrinsic strength and flexibility of Himachal Pradesh’s economy,” he remarked.
As per the preliminary figures, the GSDP at constant prices (2011-12), or real Gross State Domestic Product for 2025-26, is expected to be Rs 156,681 crore, up from Rs 144,656 crore in 2024-25, indicating a growth rate of 8.3% for 2025-26 compared to 6.4% for the first revision of 2024-25.
According to the advance estimates for 2025-26, the gross state value added from the primary sector is projected to grow at a rate of 8.4% at constant prices.
During 2025-26 (advance estimates), the gross state value added from the primary sector is expected to reach Rs 18,824 crore, compared to Rs 17,362 crore in 2024-25 (first revised) at constant prices.
The services sector remains the main driver of growth, bolstered by the steady development of tourism, trade, transport, and financial services, while industry and hydropower continue to play significant roles in the state’s advancement.
Agriculture and allied sectors persist in supporting rural livelihoods and ensuring food security for a significant portion of the population.
Reflecting the improving economic conditions, the per capita income is projected to be Rs 283,626 in 2025-26, indicating a growth of 9.8% over the previous year and remaining Rs 64,051 above the national average.
“The per capita income has risen from Rs 87,721 in 2011-12 to Rs 283,626 in 2025-26, achieving a compound annual growth rate of 8.7% since 2011-12,” CM Sukhu added.
Tourism, a vital contributor to revenue and employment in the mountainous state, has seen a resurgence post-pandemic, with domestic tourist arrivals soaring from 32.13 lakh in 2020 to 311.47 lakh, including religious tourists, in 2025.
The tourism, hotel, and restaurant sectors contribute 7.77% to the state's gross state value added in 2024-25 (first revised), driven by hospitality, transportation, handicrafts, and related industries.
The agriculture and allied sector's contribution to gross state value added at current prices has increased by 45% from Rs 22,428 crore in 2021-22 to Rs 32,415 crore in 2025-26 (advance estimates).
According to advance estimates, the gross state value added from agriculture and allied sectors is set to grow by 8.30% at constant prices in 2025-26, compared to a growth rate of 2.70% achieved in 2024-25.