The region, already known to produce the best varieties of apples in the country, is now witnessing huge investments in the hydro-power sector. A broad estimate puts the likely investment in hydel power alone at Rs 36,000 crore. The district will be producing nearly 6,000 MW of power over the next 10 years. The developers of the hydel sector are required to offer 1.5 per cent of the capital cost of their projects for the local area development fund.

In the adjoining Lahaul-Spiti district, apple cultivation has just picked up. The agriculture economy — mainly green peas grow in Spiti — is bringing nearly Rs 20 crore returns to the farmers. Cultivation of high-value medicinal herbs and seed potatoes is also proving to be a cash-spinner and is popular both here and in neighbouring districts. Meanwhile in Bharmaur the cultivation of cut flowers is a big business.

What the local people want is better infrastructure and access to the service sectors. And that is what they demand of the politicians whom they will vote for today.