Financial constraints don’t allow pension scheme of 2003: CM

Tribune News Service

Shimla, August 22

Chief Minister Jai Ram Thakur today said considering the financial constraints faced by the state government, it was not possible to revert to the old pension scheme of 2003.

The Chief Minister was replying to a query raised by Rakesh Singha and Mukesh Agnihotri during question hour in the Vidhan Sabha today. Singha stressed the need for providing pensionary benefits to employees. Agnihotri accused the BJP regime of practicing politics of convenience as their stance changes as soon as they come to power.

“Barring West Bengal, all states in the country have switched over to the new pension scheme. Moreover, our financial constraints do not permit us to revert back to the 2003 position,” said Thakur. He added that HP was following the Centre in terms of pension rules while Punjab in case of pay scale.

“The share of the government has been enhanced from 10 to 14 per cent since April 2019. This will provide Rs 175 crore benefit to 80,000 pensioners,” said Thakur. He added a sum of Rs 19,000 is being spent on salaries and pensions of employees in HP and there are 1.93 lakh pensioners in Himachal.

Replying to a query by Mukesh Agnihotri on cost of cement bags being higher by almost Rs 100 in HP, Industry Minister Bikram Singh said efforts will be made to bring down the cost by taking it up with the cement companies. “When you were industry minister, the price of cement was higher but still we will hold talks even though it is de-controlled item,” he said. He added that the high freight rates were the biggest factor for cost of cement being high in HP as compared to the neighbouring states.

Replying to a query by Pawan Kajal on the construction of Lok Bhawans in every Assembly segment, the Chief Minister said he himself was not satisfied with the progress as Rs 20 lakh had been sanctioned for each of the 68 Assembly segments. Replying to the query Rural Development and Panchayati Raj Minister Virender Kanwar said getting suitable land was a major hindrance.

Replying to a query on irregularities in selection of conductors, Transport Minister Govind Thakur assured that in case the allegations are found to be true action will be taken against the erring officials.

On higher cement prices in state 

Replying to a query by Mukesh Agnihotri on cost of cement bags being higher by almost Rs 100 in the state, Industry Minister Bikram Singh said efforts will be made to bring down the cost by taking up the matter with cement companies. Bikram added that the high freight rates were the biggest factor for cost of cement being high in HP as compared to the neighbouring states.