Hamirpur MP Anurag Thakur extended greetings to people of the state and the nation on the occasion of Chaitra Navratri and the Hindu New Year, expressing hope for peace, prosperity, and collective progress.
While addressing mediapersons at Jawalamukhi he said that at a time when the world is witnessing crises and war-like situations, people must stay united and work together for the development of the country and the state. He also prayed for the continued blessings of Goddess Durga .
Speaking on financial matters, Thakur stated that earlier, financial assistance provided to 17 states was not permanent, and states were expected to increase their revenue sources, reduce expenditure, and bring down debt over time. He noted that while several states made progress in this direction, Himachal Pradesh lagged behind, leading to a continuous rise in its debt.
Referring to railway projects, he said that the state government still has a liability of over ₹2,000 crore for the Bhanupalli–Bilaspur railway line. He added that had the state contributed its share on time, the project would have been nearing completion by now. Despite this, the central government has ensured adequate funding for the project, which is estimated at around ₹65,000 crore.
He further alleged that during the Congress regime, even ₹100 crore was difficult to secure annually for railway projects, whereas the present government has facilitated over ₹2,700 crore in a single year.
Thakur also informed that work on the Himachal portion of the Nangal–Una–Talwara railway line has been completed and the remaining stretch is expected to be connected within the next two years. Additionally, efforts are being made to initiate a new survey for a proposed railway line from Una–Nadaun–Hamirpur via Jwalamukhi to Kangra, aimed at boosting religious tourism in the region.
Concluding his remarks, he expressed confidence that the Bharatiya Janata Party will deliver a strong performance in the upcoming elections in five states.