Himachal Pradesh

Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister has highlighted concerns regarding high import duties on Apple products, urging policymakers to consider measures that could make premium technology more accessible to Indian consumers. The CM emphasized that elevated tariffs may hinder adoption of advanced devices, slow digital transformation, and limit opportunities for education, startups, and innovation-driven sectors. Analysts note that revisiting import duties could support India’s ambition to expand technology access, foster entrepreneurship, and enhance competitiveness in the global tech ecosystem.

Pensioners in Himachal Pradesh have intensified demands for a 46% revision in dearness relief, citing escalating inflation and increased cost of living. The pensioners’ associations argue that existing allowances are inadequate to sustain retirees’ basic expenses, particularly healthcare and daily necessities. The state government faces mounting pressure to address these demands while balancing fiscal prudence. A timely revision of dearness relief would not only support retirees financially but also reflect the administration’s commitment to social security.

India’s southwest monsoon has swept across the entire country nine days ahead of schedule, marking an unusual meteorological event with potentially significant implications for agriculture, infrastructure, and public safety. Typically reaching Delhi by June 27, this year’s monsoon arrived by June 25 and has covered the subcontinent in an exceptionally rapid advance. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued red and orange alerts across several states, warning of heavy to extremely heavy rainfall, thunderstorms, and potential flooding.

The Himachal Pradesh Tourism Development Corporation (HPTDC) has crossed a significant milestone, reporting an all-time high turnover of Rs 107 crore for the fiscal year, marking a 37% increase from its previous earnings. HPTDC's chairman, R.S. Bali, emphasized the importance of maintaining and renovating the corporation's hotels and proposed a Rs 300 crore renovation plan funded by the Asian Development Bank (ADB). The corporation has also entered into a strategic agreement to procure essential supplies at competitive prices, which is expected to bolster profitability.

Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu has initiated a comprehensive strategy to address electricity theft and reduce power losses in the state. Directing the Himachal Pradesh State Electricity Board Limited (HPSEBL) to implement feeder-wise mapping of all consumers, the CM aims to enhance monitoring and accountability. Additionally, Sukhu emphasized the timely completion of the 450 MW Shongtong Hydroelectric Power Project in Kinnaur by July 2025, highlighting its potential to generate significant revenue and support the state's green energy objectives.​