Himachal Pradesh

Himachal Pradesh State Electricity Board Limited (HPSEBL) has reported a record profit of Rs. 300 crore, marking a significant financial turnaround for the state-owned utility. The performance reflects improved operational efficiency, tighter cost controls, and stronger revenue realization amid a challenging power sector environment. The milestone underscores the impact of structural reforms, better billing mechanisms, and disciplined financial management.

In a major push toward enhancing regional air connectivity in Himachal Pradesh, the Central Government has sanctioned funds for the expansion of Kangra Airport. The project aims to increase the airport’s capacity, extend the runway, and improve passenger amenities to support larger aircraft operations. The initiative aligns with India’s broader regional connectivity mission under the UDAN scheme, designed to strengthen tourism and trade links in hilly regions.

Pensioners in Himachal Pradesh have formally demanded a 46% revision in dearness relief (DR), citing escalating living costs and inflationary pressures. The demand seeks to restore the purchasing power of retired government employees, whose fixed incomes have been eroded over recent years. Representatives argue that current DR rates lag behind the actual cost-of-living increases, affecting financial stability and quality of life for senior citizens. The state government is under pressure to address these concerns while balancing fiscal constraints.

Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister has urged Milkfed, the state’s cooperative dairy federation, to enhance its marketing strategies and prioritize quality improvement to strengthen the local dairy industry. He emphasized the importance of building consumer trust through consistent product quality, wider distribution, and efficient branding. The Chief Minister also highlighted the government’s commitment to supporting dairy farmers, boosting rural incomes, and positioning Milkfed products as a benchmark for purity and reliability.

In a pre-Diwali gesture aimed at alleviating the financial strain on government employees and pensioners, the Himachal Pradesh government has announced a 3% increase in Dearness Allowance (DA). This adjustment, effective from July 1, 2025, will benefit approximately 2.15 lakh employees and 1.90 lakh pensioners. The revised DA will be reflected in the October 2025 salaries and pensions, with arrears from July 2025 to September 2025 to be disbursed subsequently.

JSW Neo Energy, a subsidiary of JSW Energy, has announced the acquisition of the Tidong hydroelectric power project in Himachal Pradesh, strengthening its presence in India’s renewable energy sector. The move underscores the company’s strategic shift toward green energy, as it aims to increase the share of renewables in its overall portfolio. The acquisition aligns with India’s broader transition toward sustainable power generation and marks a significant step in diversifying JSW’s clean energy assets.

A major financial dispute has surfaced in Himachal Pradesh’s energy sector, with hydropower developers collectively owing the Himachal Pradesh State Electricity Board (HPSEB) more than ₹1,177 crore. The dues stem from costs related to feasibility studies, surveys, and detailed project reports (DPRs) conducted before project execution. Among these, the Baspa-II project alone accounts for ₹874.69 crore, making it the largest single debtor.

Indian pharmaceutical major Glenmark Pharmaceuticals has received critical observations from the United States Food and Drug Administration (USFDA) following an inspection of its Baddi facility in Himachal Pradesh. The US regulator, after a routine audit, identified multiple lapses in the plant’s manufacturing practices, issuing a Form 483 with seven key observations. While the company has yet to receive any import restrictions or warning letters, the findings underscore the growing scrutiny faced by Indian drugmakers exporting to the United States.