Nadda’s New Role To Solve Himachal’s Concerns

Himachal This Week

Union Health Minister Jagat Prakash Nadda will have a new role in politics after he was elected to the Rajya Sabha for the second term. Political observers are trying to understand the force behind coronation of Nadda. Has the real power centre in this hilly state been established around Union Health Minister? Will the same charisma be witnessed during next Lok Sabha elections due in 2019? Nadda will plead Himachal’s concerns before the Centre for Jai Ram Thakur’s government that is in the midst of budget session, political observers point out.

Union minister’s existence will be strengthened if Himachal gets liberal financial assistance in the backdrop of special category status. Though there are indications with regard to infrastructure development, especially expansion of four lanes, yet Himachal’s biggest concern is its increasing debt liability. There are many state issues that have been lingering on for many years. If resolved, these can give impetus to state’s growth speedily. Nadda can play an important role in getting Himachal’s pending share in Bhakhra Beas Management Board projects and financial benefits of Punjab Reorganisation.

This hilly state can become self reliant if rail or tourism package is granted on the pattern of industrial package granted to it in the past, political observers feel. In addition, the state will play a new role if work on Bhanupali-Bilapsur-Manali rail line and expansion of Gaggal airport projects is initiated. Political observers point out that railways expansion should be linked with religious tourism in the backdrop of religious places like Chintpurni, Jwalamukhi, Kangra, Deotsidh and Chamunda.

Knowledgeable persons feel that Himachal can develop as destination for international high end tourism if Union Government provides patronage to this hilly state by incorporating Himalayan and Dhauladhar tourism circuit. Having only four members in Lok Sabha, Himachal’s voice remains unheard in political circles.

However, the state has high hopes from Prime Minister Narendra Modi who has special affinity with Himachal. Some of the central institutes were established here while others are in the pipeline. Establishing AIIMS, IIIT in Una, IIM in Paonta Sahib and Central University of Himachal Pradesh in Kangra will be important for Rajya Sabha MP and Union Health Minister, as he will have keen interest in medical colleges of Chamba, Hamirpur, Nahan and Ner Chowk.

Nadda in the centre can change Himachal’s fortunes as he can do a lot for this hilly state besides solving problems of Bhakhra and Pong Dam oustees permanently. He has also emerged as a hope for BJP’s youth workers as unemployment and GST are likely to be the biggest issues during next Lok Sabha elections, political observers say. Nadda will have to write the script to ensure BJP’s victory during next elections, they add.

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