The 15th Finance Commission started its deliberations with the representatives of various political parties, Panchayati Raj Institutions and Urban Local Bodies here at Shimla today. Himachal Pradesh being a hilly State, less industrialized, having less income generation capacity and very high debt on the State, all these issues needs special consideration by the 15th Finance Commission. This was opined by the political parties viz. BJP, Congress and CPI (M) who attended the meeting.Infrastructure development in railways, road connectivity especially in border areas was also emphasized to develop tourism as well as to strengthen border security. These would also help in attracting more investment for the industries and job creation for the youth. Industrial package on the line of North East States was demanded. Political Parties also demanded revenue deficit grant to be continued and they sought solution for GST Revenue loss. The parties also demanded share of Himachal in BBMB case as per Supreme Court decision. The levy of a cess of paisa per unit on electricity generation was also discussed.
In the meeting with representatives of Local bodies, some policy related issues like the modalities of fund transfer to the local bodies were the main focus area. The representatives urged the commission to consider the peculiar issues of the State like hilly terrain, flux of tourists and tough climatic conditions for grants and devolution of funds. They urged for special funds for development of civic amenities like drinking water supply, sanitation and disaster mitigation in Municipal areas. Representatives also focused on the need for the funds to be given to the Zila Parishads and Panchayat Samitis. They requested for financial support for development of Eco-tourism, road connectivity and other amenities to increase their income generation avenues.They also urged the commission to change the funding pattern for Smart City Projects.Commission also tried to understand from the local bodies the wage and means to generate their own revenues and updation of their accounts. The 15th Finance Commission was lead by Chairman Mr. N.K. Singh, Members Mr. Shaktikanta Das, Dr. Anoop Singh, Dr. Ashok Lahiri, Dr. Ramesh Chand , Secretary Mr. Arvind Mehta and other officials.