BJP brought no gains: Chauhan

Principal Adviser (Media) to the Chief Minister, Naresh Chauhan, today criticised the BJP for celebrating 11 years of its government at the Centre, claiming that Himachal Pradesh has received no tangible benefits during this period.

In a statement issued here, Chauhan said BJP MPs from the state failed to secure Himachal’s rightful dues from the Centre. Despite Prime Minister Narendra Modi frequently referring to Himachal as his second home and promising support for tourism and horticulture, nothing has materialised on the ground, he added.

Chauhan asserted that there is no justification for celebrating the BJP-led Central government’s 11-year tenure, as it has repeatedly discriminated against the state and its citizens.

He cited the reduction in import duty on foreign apples—from 75% to 50%—as a major blow to local apple growers. He also highlighted the unfulfilled promise of adding 5% natural fruit juice to soft drinks, which was intended to boost farmer incomes.

Chauhan further accused the Union government of denying the state special disaster relief assistance of Rs 10,000 crore. He said the funds received were part of centrally sponsored schemes to which the state is already entitled. BJP MPs, he said, have only misled the people.