During a press conference at Rajiv Bhawan, Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu sharply criticized the ruling BJP government in Assam, alleging that its decisions could adversely affect the state’s resources.
He highlighted the recent 6,000 MW power agreement between the Assam government and Adani Power, claiming it is not in the public interest. Sukhu said the power purchase agreement is set at Rs. 6.30 per unit, while electricity from solar projects is available at Rs. 2.50–3 per unit, raising concerns over potential irregularities and calling for an investigation.
Referring to Congress leader Rahul Gandhi, he stated that if the Congress forms the government in Assam, all such matters will be thoroughly examined, and strict action will be taken against those found guilty.
Sukhu accused the BJP of failing to deliver on economic growth and employment despite being in power for the last decade. He added that the party has relied on caste- and religion-based politics and warned that the public will not be misled this time.
Citing Himachal Pradesh as a model, he noted that under the Congress government, per capita income has risen to Rs. 2.83 lakh, about Rs. 64,000 higher than the national average. He highlighted social welfare initiatives, including free electricity of up to 250 units on two meters and up to 300 units for extremely poor families. He also mentioned the state’s progress in education, healthcare, tourism, and social welfare programs such as declaring orphaned children as “Children of the State” and restoring the Old Pension Scheme for government employees.
On agriculture, Sukhu detailed MSP (Minimum Support Price) increases: naturally grown wheat from Rs. 60 to Rs. 80 per kg, maize from Rs. 40 to Rs. 50, barley in Pangi Valley from Rs. 60 to Rs. 80, and turmeric from Rs. 90 to Rs. 150 per kg. Ginger was included under MSP for the first time at Rs. 30 per kg. Additionally, the procurement price for cow milk is fixed at Rs. 61 per litre and buffalo milk at Rs. 71 per litre.
Nurturing Creativity – Keekli Charitable Trust, Shimla
