Himachal Pradesh

Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu has appealed to the central government to impose restrictions on apple imports, citing mounting pressure on domestic growers and falling farmgate prices. The request comes amid concerns that cheaper imported apples are distorting the local market, undermining livelihoods in apple-growing states. Sukhu’s appeal underscores broader tensions between trade liberalization and agricultural sustainability, particularly for horticulture-dependent hill economies.

Himachal Pradesh State Electricity Board Limited (HPSEBL) posted a record profit of Rs. 300 crore for the latest fiscal period, driven by higher energy demand, operational efficiency, and effective cost management. The board’s performance underscores the growing power consumption in residential, commercial, and industrial sectors, coupled with prudent financial and infrastructural strategies. Officials highlighted the role of renewable energy integration, timely tariff adjustments, and streamlined billing processes in strengthening revenue streams.

The Himachal Pradesh Green Industrial Corporation (HPGIC) has unveiled plans to upgrade its manufacturing plants, aiming to boost operational efficiency, expand production capacity, and support sustainable industrial growth in the region. The announcement, made by the state’s industry minister, underscores the government’s commitment to modernizing infrastructure and fostering an investor-friendly environment. The upgrades will involve adoption of advanced technologies, process automation, and energy-efficient systems, positioning HPGIC plants to meet growing market demand.

JSW Neo Energy, the renewable energy subsidiary of JSW Energy, has completed the acquisition of the Tidong Hydro Plant in Himachal Pradesh, marking a significant step in expanding its clean energy footprint. The project, located on the Tidong River, enhances the company’s hydroelectric capacity while aligning with its strategy of building a diversified renewable portfolio. With growing emphasis on sustainable power, the move positions JSW Neo Energy to meet India’s rising demand for green electricity and strengthens its long-term objective of transitioning toward net-zero emissions.

Severe floods have wreaked havoc across Himachal Pradesh and Punjab, displacing thousands, damaging infrastructure, and inflicting heavy losses on agriculture and livelihoods. Prime Minister Narendra Modi began his official visit to the affected regions, pledging unwavering support from the Centre to aid recovery and rehabilitation. His assurance reflects the government’s intention to mobilize financial, logistical, and institutional resources to restore normalcy while prioritizing immediate relief for the affected population.

The National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) has successfully restored a key stretch of the Kiratpur–Manali four-lane project in Himachal Pradesh, a section severely damaged by flash floods and landslides during the monsoon season. This restoration is critical to reviving connectivity for residents, tourists, and businesses in the region. The highway, a vital economic and tourism lifeline, had faced major disruptions, impacting supply chains and local livelihoods.

Bharti Airtel has announced special relief measures for its customers in Jammu & Kashmir and Himachal Pradesh in the wake of recent heavy rains and flooding. The telecom operator is offering extended payment deadlines, bill waivers, and enhanced network support to ensure uninterrupted connectivity during the emergency. This initiative underscores Airtel’s commitment to customer care and disaster response, particularly in regions prone to extreme weather.

India has dispatched its first commercial consignment of Garhwali apples from Uttarakhand to Dubai, marking a breakthrough for the country’s horticulture exports. The initiative highlights the growing global appeal of premium Himalayan produce and underscores the government’s efforts to diversify agricultural exports beyond traditional staples. With rising demand for high-quality fruits in international markets, the shipment is expected to pave the way for farmers in Uttarakhand to access lucrative overseas buyers.

The Himachal Road Transport Corporation (HRTC) has reported annual revenue of Rs. 1,236 crore, marking a significant step in its operational performance. The achievement comes despite challenging terrain, seasonal disruptions, and rising fuel costs. Improved route optimization, expanded services, and enhanced operational oversight have contributed to the revenue boost. The state-run transport body, which plays a vital role in connecting remote areas, has also invested in upgrading its fleet and improving commuter services.

JSW Energy has successfully commissioned the first unit of its much-anticipated Kutehr Hydro Electric Project in Himachal Pradesh, marking a significant milestone in the company's transition toward sustainable power generation. With a capacity of 240 MW, the Kutehr project is designed to support India’s long-term clean energy goals while enhancing JSW’s diversified energy mix. The commissioning of the first 80 MW unit strengthens JSW Energy's footprint in the hydropower segment and reinforces its commitment to delivering reliable, renewable energy across the country.