We have been denied our legitimate dues under the States’ Reorganisation Act 1966 and our voice is hardly heard or given due weightage. Perhaps, it’s because Himachal doesn’t have a powerful lobby at the Centre to influence decisions or get its legitimate rights.

Among the many instances of neglect are the visit by Prime Minister Dr Manmohan Singh to Himachal in June 2005 to dedicate the 1,500 MW Nathpa Jhakri Hydro Electric Project. He made several announcements about a “special package” for the state’s development, but nothing has matured so far. Still, we didn’t raise a hue and cry.

The Centre has failed to provide the state its legitimate share in the railway network expansion and roads remain the sole mode of connectivity. The state conducted a pre-feasibility survey for the Bhanupalli-Bilaspur-Beri broad-gauge railway line at its own expense and proposed the same for funding by the Centre. But despite assurances by the Prime Minister and Union Railway Minister Laloo Yadav’s announcement of the project in the Budget, it has not been taken seriously. Under the agreement, the Centre and the state have to share the expense in a 75:25 ratio. The state government as already made a provision of Rs 37 crore but we haven’t heard of a suitable budgetary provision from the Centre.

Himachal preserves and conserves its vast natural potential for the benefit of the nation, but it has not been compensated. The rivers originating in Himachal generate power and irrigate fields in the neighbouring states. The forests absorb the carbon generated by the industry and other emissions in downhill areas.

... contd.