Land revenue collection from hydropower developers a legitimate right of HP: CM

Shimla: Himachal Pradesh chief minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu on Saturday said people should get the benefit of the state's existing resources and land revenue collection from hydropower developers was a legitimate right of the state.Sukhu chaired a meeting with developers of various hydropower projects in the state, followed by detailed discussions on the assessment of land revenue. He told the developers that Himachal Pradesh was blessed with abundant natural resources, further emphasising that it was the responsibility of hydropower project developers operating in the state to pay land revenue, which was a legitimate right of the state.He underlined that all operational hydropower projects must adhere to regulations and ensure timely payment of land revenue. Sukhu said discussions could be held to rationalise the rates for land revenue payment.The CM was informed that a meeting regarding hydropower projects of 25 megawatt (MW) capacity would be held on Jan 12 in Shimla under the chairmanship of revenue minister Jagat Singh Negi.Sukhu highlighted that the state govt was committed to ensuring optimal utilisation of Himachal Pradesh's resources for the welfare and development of its people. He assured that the govt would also provide effective solutions to the challenges faced by the hydropower developers.He also said the govt demanded permanent membership for the state in the Bhakra Beas Management Board projects and early release of approximately Rs 6,500 crore as arrears due for the period from 1966 to 2011.MSID:: 126321158 413 |