Are Hydropower Project Developers Obligated to Pay Land Revenue, Asserts Himachal CM?
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Synopsis
In a significant meeting, Himachal Pradesh CM Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu emphasized the necessity for hydropower project developers to pay land revenue. This obligation is integral to the state's rights. The discussion included potential rate rationalization and upcoming meetings to ensure compliance and address challenges faced by developers.
Key Takeaways
- Developers must pay land revenue to comply with state regulations.
- Government committed to maximizing resource utilization for public welfare.
- Potential discussions to rationalize land revenue rates are on the table.
- Next meeting on hydropower projects scheduled for January 12.
- State asserts rights with the Centre for BBMB projects.
Shimla, Jan 3 (NationPress) The Chief Minister of Himachal Pradesh, Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu, convened a meeting on Saturday with hydropower project developers within the state, which included extensive discussions regarding land revenue assessments.
The Chief Minister emphasized that the state is endowed with plentiful natural resources and highlighted that it is the duty of hydropower project developers in Himachal Pradesh to fulfill their obligation of paying land revenue, which is a rightful claim of the state.
He stressed that all existing hydropower projects are required to comply with regulations and ensure timely payment of land revenue.
Furthermore, the Chief Minister mentioned that discussions could be initiated to rationalize land revenue rates.
A meeting focused on hydropower projects with a capacity of 25 MW is scheduled for January 12 in Shimla, led by the State Revenue Minister Jagat Singh Negi.
The Chief Minister reiterated the government's commitment to maximizing the utilization of Himachal Pradesh's resources for the benefit and development of its populace.
He assured that the government is dedicated to providing effective solutions to the challenges faced by hydropower developers.
The Chief Minister also noted that the state government has implemented numerous decisions aimed at making Himachal Pradesh self-sufficient and prosperous, asserting its rights with both the Centre and neighboring states.
The government has requested a permanent membership in BBMB projects and the prompt release of around Rs 6,500 crore as arrears owed from 1966 to 2011.
During the meeting, Revenue Minister Negi shared his perspectives, while various stakeholders voiced their opinions before the Chief Minister.
Attendees included Deputy Chief Whip Kewal Singh Pathania, MLAs Sunder Singh Thakur and Vinod Sultanpuri, Additional Chief Secretary K.K. Pant, Secretary to the Chief Minister Rakesh Kanwar, along with other senior officials.
Point of View
I believe that the Himachal Pradesh government's firm stance on land revenue underscores the importance of accountability among hydropower developers. This proactive approach not only safeguards state resources but also ensures that the benefits of these projects are equitably shared with local communities. It is essential to maintain a balance between development and responsibility.
NationPress
04/01/2026
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is land revenue important for hydropower projects?
Land revenue is crucial as it represents the state's rightful claim for the use of its resources, ensuring economic benefits are returned to the public.
What measures are being taken to support hydropower developers?
The Chief Minister has assured that the government will provide effective solutions to the challenges faced by developers, along with potential discussions to rationalize land revenue rates.
When is the next meeting regarding hydropower projects scheduled?
A meeting focused on hydropower projects with a capacity of 25 MW is set for January 12 in Shimla, chaired by State Revenue Minister Jagat Singh Negi.
