Sukhu Announces Rs 150-Crore for Dharamsala Centre

by The_unmuteenglish

Dharamshala, 24 January 2025: Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu announced plans for India’s largest International Convention Centre near Tapovan in Kangra district, with an estimated cost of Rs 150 crore.

Speaking at Dari Mela Ground in Dharamsala, he said the facility would attract global seminars, boost tourism, and create job opportunities for the local youth.

The CM outlined a slew of development initiatives, including the operationalisation of a Primary Health Centre in Yol Cantt, funding for a bridge connecting the IT Park, and resources to complete OBC Bhawan. He detailed road construction projects such as Jhiyol to Anjani Mata, Parol to Ghiyana Khurd Bara Khaula, Kufri to Chamunda Temple, and others aimed at enhancing connectivity across the region.

Accusing the previous BJP-led government of corruption, Sukhu cited the police recruitment scam as an example, stating, “We are ensuring transparency and have initiated vigilance inquiries, including into irregularities in the Jal Shakti Department’s Theog division.” He alleged that the BJP misused state funds for political gains while his government prioritizes public welfare.

Highlighting the Congress-led administration’s achievements, Sukhu reaffirmed the restoration of the Old Pension Scheme (OPS) for 1.36 lakh employees despite financial pressure from the Central Government. “The Centre capped the state’s loan-raising limit due to OPS at Rs 1,600 crore and is withholding Rs 9,000 crore under the New Pension Scheme,” he said. Sukhu added that requests for disaster-relief funds and a special package from the Centre were denied.

The CM criticised Dharamsala MLA Sudhir Sharma for neglecting public concerns, accusing him of prioritising social media appearances over constituency needs. “The Congress government focuses on public welfare, not political gains,” Sukhu stated.

Agriculture Minister Chander Kumar underscored the government’s initiatives to revive farming, urging citizens to explore agriculture as a means of income. Former Dharamsala Mayor Devender Jaggi echoed criticisms against the local MLA, saying his absence in public matters had harmed the region’s development.

The announcement has positioned Dharamsala as a major hub for tourism and economic growth, marking a significant step forward for the region.

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