Himachal CM Sukhu, Cabinet to Meet Kharge & Rahul in Delhi

February 18, 2026

Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu along with his cabinet of ministers will travel to New Delhi on Thursday to meet Indian National Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge and party leader Rahul Gandhi. The meeting is scheduled for 4 pm and will focus on the state’s worsening financial situation due to the discontinuation of the Revenue Deficit Grant (RDG) by the Centre, as recommended in the latest Finance Commission report.

 Financial Strain from RDG Withdrawal

The RDG a key component of fiscal support for states with revenue shortfalls has been discontinued following the 16th Finance Commission’s recommendations, prompting concerns from the Himachal Pradesh government about looming budgetary stress. Sukhu and his ministers plan to urge the party high command to intervene and press the issue with the Prime Minister’s Office before the Union Budget is passed on March 17.

 State Assembly Debate and Resolution

On the same day, the Himachal Pradesh Vidhan Sabha is engaged in a debate under Rule 102 on the implications of the RDG withdrawal. The government aims to adopt a resolution urging the Centre to restore the RDG, which will then be sent to the Union government. Sukhu has appealed to the opposition BJP to support the resolution in the interest of the state, highlighting the potential long-term impact on fiscal health and public services.

 Push for Central Government Engagement

While Sukhu has sought a meeting with Prime Minister Narendra Modi on the issue, confirmation is still pending. He has reiterated the need for a united front across party lines to safeguard Himachal Pradesh’s economic stability, arguing that fiscal pressure will affect governance, welfare schemes, and development programmes if left unaddressed.