Addressing a public gathering at the historic Dhalpur ground in Kullu, Mandi parliamentarian Kangana Ranaut raised sharp concerns regarding the financial governance of the hill state. The gathering, organized on Wednesday, October 7 under the banner of the Viksit Bharat Sankalp Sabha, saw the participation of Opposition Leader and former Chief Minister Jai Ram Thakur alongside numerous Bharatiya Janata Party workers. During her address, which spanned roughly 12 minutes and 30 seconds, Ranaut lauded the developmental direction of Prime Minister Narendra Modi while directing criticism at the Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu led administration.
Fiscal Burden and Rising State Liabilities
Speaking before the gathering, Ranaut expressed deep dismay over the economic path currently pursued by the state dispensation. She argued that recurring borrowing has reduced the state to an unsustainable condition of dependence.
“Our Himachal has become a state that has turned into a burden on the Centre, and I feel immense embarrassment and sorrow.”
Ranaut observed that persistent reliance on fresh loans has created deep structural problems, which could severely complicate matters for future administrations. She contended that negative mindsets tend to find fault in constructive endeavors, adding that the objective should remain aligning Himachal Pradesh with the central leadership's national expansion targets. Alongside infrastructure and economic considerations, she underscored the significance of upholding cultural ethos and promoting religious harmony symbolized by the saffron flag.
Concerns Over Substance Abuse Among Youth
Turning her focus toward social issues, Ranaut emphasized that growing narcotics addiction poses an existential threat to the region. She pointed out that while the residents of Himachal Pradesh are known for their innocent and humble nature, substance dependency is silently undermining community vitality. Reminding the audience that children and young adults represent the state's most valuable asset, she warned that losing them to addiction would cripple the region's ability to support broader nation-building efforts, demanding an uncompromising resolve to establish a drug-free territory.
Commitment to Viksit Bharat 2047 Goals
Highlighting Prime Minister Narendra Modi's 25 years in public service, Ranaut described the milestone as an inspiring journey marked by civic engagement and selflessness. She urged attendees to closely engage with the targets laid down under the Viksit Bharat 2047 roadmap.
The Mandi representative noted that foundational pillars such as economic self-reliance, youth empowerment, female leadership, promotion of local craftsmanship, and equitable delivery of public services to the most disadvantaged citizens form the core of long-term progress. Concluding her remarks, she stated that nation-building remains a shared responsibility, calling upon every citizen to participate dedicatedly in fulfilling these developmental goals.
