In a major bid to transform Himachal Pradesh into a premier global destination, Chief Minister Thakur Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu announced an ambitious plan to pump between ₹10,000 crore and ₹15,000 crore into the state’s tourism sector over the next five years. Speaking at the closing ceremony of the Koti Golf Cup-2026 at Naldehra—where over 80 golfers competed—the Chief Minister highlighted that the primary focus will be on building robust infrastructure, promoting high-end tourism, and expanding air connectivity to ensure seamless travel for visitors.
To power this tourism revolution, the state government is committing ₹3,000 crore solely toward land acquisition for expanding the Kangra airport, enabling larger commercial aircraft to operate. Additionally, ₹35 crore has been earmarked under the Viability Gap Funding mechanism to support regional flight operations. The government is also working on a comprehensive air network that includes connecting all district headquarters with modern heliport facilities and introducing connecting flights from Shimla.
Alongside air infrastructure, sustainable development remains a central pillar of the state’s strategy. CM Sukhu revealed that 60 eco-tourism sites have already been leased out, generating ₹22 crore for the state exchequer. Praising the historic Naldehra Golf Course as one of the state’s most picturesque sporting gems, he commended Rural Development Minister Anirudh Singh for efforts to make the venue financially self-sustainable, supported by ₹1.82 crore in state development funds.
Reiterating his vision to make Himachal Pradesh completely self-reliant through progressive policy shifts, the Chief Minister warmly recalled his own student days visiting the Naldehra region. He emphasized that every initiative—from world-class golf events to upgraded skyways—is designed to drive local economic growth and project Himachal’s natural beauty onto the international stage.
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