Sukhu’s 3 years: Tough reforms, tougher challenges

AS the Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu government marks three years in office, Himachal Pradesh finds itself at a juncture that is shaped by systemic restructuring, welfare recalibration and the cumulative impact of two years of devastating monsoon disasters. The anniversary event in Mandi today (December 11) is expected to highlight what the government describes as ‘Vyavastha Parivartan’, its push towards transparent, technology-driven and fiscally sustainable governance.Among the most debated reforms that the Sukhu government has undertaken is the integration of low-enrolment schools. It is aimed at pooling resources to ensure students benefit from better teaching strength, quality infrastructure and a more efficient distribution of public funds. In a hill state with scattered populations, the move seeks long-term academic gain even as it encounters resistance from affected communities. Fiscal realism has also driven the government to rationalise water subsidies. The government has decided to shift from universal benefits to targeted support. This is a politically difficult but necessary step for a state struggling with mounting debt and high disaster-related expenditure. The approach aligns with Sukhu’s broader stance of strengthening welfare while curbing unsustainable expenditures. In the health sector, the government has expanded the capacities of district hospitals, rolled out digital health records and improved emergency response systems in an attempt to build a more resilient healthcare network.Still, the challenges are substantial. The Opposition points to ballooning debt, slow repair of roads and bridges damaged by landslides and delays in compensation to flood-hit families. Revenue stress remains acute even as welfare and reconstruction costs rise. Public apprehension over school mergers and subsidy cuts requires careful outreach and clarity. The next phase of the government’s tenure will determine whether these shifts translate into durable stability, stronger services and a sustainable fiscal path for Himachal’s future.

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