Current Context: Himachal Pradesh rank among the top three most debt-ridden states in India, as per data shared in Parliament.
Highlights:
- Debt: ₹1,02,594 crore.
- Debt-to-GSDP Ratio:2% (3rd highest in India).
- Dependent on tourism, hydropower, and agriculture, but revenues are insufficient to meet commitments.
Challenges for Himachal Pradesh:
- Heavy spending on salaries and subsidies.
- High borrowing for infrastructure projects leading to repayment pressures.
- Limited revenue generation from key economic sectors.
Significance:
- Highlights the importance of fiscal prudence and sustainable financial management at state and national levels.
- Emphasizes the need for structural reforms in debt management and revenue generation.