SHIMLA-12th April, 2026
Historic first: MSP introduced for reservoir fish, Royalty slashed to 1 percent
· Fishermen welfare gets major push under the present regime
For the first time in the State’s history, any government has taken proactive and focused steps to uplift the fishermen community. The State Government has initiated significant and forward-looking measures to strengthen the fisheries sector and ensure improved livelihood security for fishermen across the state. In line with the Budget 2026-27 announcements of Chief Minister Thakur Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu, the Department of Fisheries is gearing up to implement the initiatives at the grassroots level. The measures are designed to protect reservoir fishermen from market fluctuations, ensure fair pricing for their produce and enhance their overall income. These efforts underscore the government's firm commitment to the welfare of fishermen and the sustainable growth of the fisheries sector.
The Chief Minister has, for the first time in the history of Himachal Pradesh, announced a Minimum Support Price (MSP) for fish harvested from reservoirs. This step aims to protect fishermen from unpredictable price variations and provide assured income support. The composite MSP for reservoir fish has been fixed at Rs. 100 per kilogram. Additionally, if the auction price falls below Rs. 100 per kilogram, the State Government will provide a subsidy of up to Rs. 20 per kilogram through the Direct Benefit Transfer mechanism. This will ensure fair remuneration and enhance transparency, as the subsidy will be credited directly into the bank accounts of eligible fishermen.
In another major relief measure, the Chief Minister has announced a substantial reduction in the royalty rate on fish harvested from reservoirs. The State Government had earlier reduced the royalty from 15 percent to 7.5 percent and it has now been decided to further reduce the royalty rate to just 1 percent in the current financial year. This decision is expected to directly benefit over 6,000 reservoir fishermen by reducing their financial burden and significantly increasing their net income.
Himachal Pradesh has five major reservoirs: Gobind Sagar (Bilaspur and Una), Pong Dam (Kangra), Ranjit Sagar and Chamera (Chamba), and Kol Dam (Bilaspur). Silver Carp is the dominant species in Gobind Sagar, Kol Dam, Ranjit Sagar and Chamera reservoirs, while Singhara predominates in Pong Dam. Other important species include Rohu, Catla, Mrigal, Common Carp and Grass Carp. Owing to focused policy interventions and sustained efforts, such as the annual stocking of advanced fingerlings (70-100 mm), reservoir fish production has shown substantial improvement. Production from reservoirs has increased from 549.35 metric tonnes in 2022-23 to 818.02 metric tonnes in 2025-26, reflecting strong positive momentum in the sector.
These progressive policy measures are expected to significantly strengthen the reservoir fisheries economy, promote sustainable fishing practices and enhance the participation of fishing communities in reservoir-based activities. The government is also continuously working to expand fisheries infrastructure, improve marketing systems and create better livelihood opportunities for fishermen and fish farmers.
The state has also recorded notable growth in overall fish production. Total fish production increased from 19,019 metric tonnes in 2024-25 to 20,005 metric tonnes in 2025-26, underscoring the positive impact of ongoing development initiatives in the fisheries sector. This growth highlights the increasing contribution of fisheries to rural employment and the state's economy.
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Sukhu while addressing a press conference in Una on Sunday launched a sharp attack on the state BJP, describing it as 'Anti-Himachal'.
Chief Minister Thakur Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu while addressing a press conference in Una on Sunday launched a sharp attack on the state BJP, describing it as 'Anti-Himachal'. He questioned why the party had failed to stand with the state government before the Centre on crucial issues such as the Revenue Deficit Grant (RDG) and disaster relief. He also asked why BJP leaders did not accompany the government to meet the Prime Minister when the state was fighting for its rightful dues.
The Chief Minister alleged that during the BJP’s tenure, Himachal Pradesh was burdened with a debt of Rs. 76,633 crore. He further said that the previous government for distributing nearly Rs. 5,000 crore in 'freebies' during election time, which weakened financial discipline. Despite receiving significantly higher funds from the Centre around Rs. 60,000 crore more than the present government the BJP failed to utilise these resources effectively. Instead, he claimed, the funds were misused, pushing the state deeper into debt. He said that if the money was been properly utilised, Himachal could have been debt-free today.
He said that BJP policies had consistently been against the interests of the state and did not prioritise public welfare. In contrast the present state government from past 40 months has focused on Vyavastha Parivartan, prioritized public service, introduced policy changes, enacted new laws and curbed corruption which were bringing positive results.
Sh. Sukhu said that the people of the state have now recognized the truth that the BJP has been making desperate attempts to gain power through social media manipulation, including defaming the present government with false claims. He said that the Congress government has introduced several welfare schemes including a monthly assistance of Rs. 1,500 for women from one lakh underprivileged families, free electricity up to 300 units and pensions for women above 59 years of age.
He said that to promote natural farming, the minimum support prices for wheat, maize and turmeric have been increased, thereby boosting farmer's incomes. He reaffirmed the present state government was committed to transparency, good governance and making the state self-reliant for which making all possible efforts.
The Chief Minister said that Himachal ranked 21st in quality education during the BJP’s rule, whereas it has now improved to fifth place nationwide under the present government. The introduction of the CBSE pattern in government schools has opened new opportunities for students.
Highlighting industrial development, he said the Bulk Drug Park project in Una as transformative, expected to generate over 10,000 jobs in the district and usher in a new phase of industrial growth. In the energy sector efforts were being made to establish Una as a leader in solar power, including the installation of a solar plant in Pekhubela and the development of similar projects in various parts of the state.
He said that improvements in health sectors was among the top priorities of the state government for which hospitals are being equipped with modern machinery and specialist doctors to ensure better services for the poor and needy.
Referring to the natural disasters of 2023 and 2025, the Chief Minister said the state government had announced historic relief packages on its own, while no BJP leader stepped forward to secure additional assistance from the Centre. He added that the state is still awaiting the Rs. 1,500 crore relief packages announced by the Prime Minister and BJP leaders were not making any efforts representing the state and demanding accountability on the matter.
Sh. Sukhu further said that the discontinuation of RDG has caused a loss of approximately Rs. 50,000 crore to the state. He said that this amount is the state’s right, not charity.
He said that the BJP is facing internal factionalism and the party is divided into five groups in Himachal. He said that the Opposition Leader Jai Ram Thakur is under pressure to retain his position, which is why he keeps issuing frequent statements against Congress just to be in the media.
Deputy Chief Minister Mukesh Agnihotri, MLAs Rakesh Kalia and Vivek Sharma, former MLA Satpal Raizada, District Congress President Des Raj Gautam, HIMCOFED Chairman Vikram Sharma, SC Commission member Vijay Dogra, Congress leader Ashok Thakur and other dignitaries were present during the press conference.
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SHIMLA - 12th April, 2026
CM inaugurates State-Level Haroli Festival-2026
Chief Minister Thakur Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu formally inaugurated the State-Level Haroli Festival-2026 at Haroli in Una district on Saturday. He said that this festival marks the beginning of a vibrant celebration which reflects the spirit of Baisakhi and the rich cultural heritage of Himachal Pradesh.
On the occasion, the Chief Minister offered prayers at the sacred flame of Chintpurni Temple, invoking blessings for peace, prosperity and well-being of the people of the state. He also participated in the traditional procession, which showcased the folk traditions and cultural diversity of the region, drawing enthusiastic participation from the public.
Addressing the gathering during the inaugural cultural evening, the Chief Minister extended his greetings to the people of Haroli and Una district. He said that such festivals are a reflection of the deep-rooted cultural values, unity and collective strength of society. He said that preserving and promoting local traditions is essential for strengthening the cultural identity of the state.
He appreciated the efforts of the Deputy Chief Minister, Mukesh Agnihotri, and the local administration for organizing the event in a grand and well-coordinated manner.
Mukesh Agnihotri said that the state government is committed to inclusive development while ensuring that the rich cultural legacy of Himachal Pradesh continues to thrive. He stated that platforms like the Haroli Festival not only celebrate tradition but also foster social harmony and community participation.
During the first cultural evening, Punjabi singer Gippy Grewal captivated the audience with his popular songs, creating an electrifying atmosphere. Earlier, Abhigya Band also impressed the audience with their performance.
MLAs Rakesh Kalia, Vivek Sharma, Sudarshan Babloo, former minister and Chairman of Himachal Pradesh State SC Commission Kuldeep Dhiman, former MLA Satpal Singh Raizada and other dignitaries were present on the occasion.