Shimla, March 20 Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu invited industry leaders to invest in the tourism, food processing, and Information Technology sectors in the state.
He assured them that any form of harassment of industrialists would not be tolerated, and their grievances could be brought directly to his notice.
Presiding over the Confederation of Indian Industries (CII) Himachal Pradesh Annual Conference in Shimla late Thursday evening, he said that the present state government is actively promoting green industries, keeping in view the state's unique geographical and environmental conditions.
The government would provide all possible support and necessary facilities to industries, and investment in the tourism and hospitality sectors is being actively encouraged, he said in a statement issued here on Friday.
Addressing the conference themed "Building a Future-Ready Himachal Pradesh for a Better Tomorrow: Harnessing Local Strengths for Global Competitiveness", he said the government also plans to invest Rs 3,000 crore in tourism in the coming times.
He said that heliports are being constructed at district headquarters and prominent tourist places of the state. He added that heli-taxi services have already been introduced, with plans underway to expand this facility.
Additionally, the expansion of the Kangra airport is in progress.
He said that a Bulk Drug Park is being developed at Haroli in Una district, where incentives are being offered to investors. Emphasizing improvements in the single-window system, he said that all clearances for industries should be provided at one place, and the Industries Department should actively facilitate investors.
Sukhu said that most industries in the state are located along the borders with neighbouring States. He added that the government is focusing on developing better infrastructure in these areas.
Underground utility ducts, on the lines of Shimla, would be developed in Baddi. Efforts are being made to address power load issues in industrial areas. He added that the State government is bearing 50 per cent of the cost, along with land acquisition expenses, to extend railway connectivity to Baddi.
Himachal Pradesh serves as the "lungs of North India" as well as a "water bowl," but it has been deprived of its rightful share, he said.
Industries Minister Harshwardhan Chauhan said that Himachal Pradesh offers a conducive environment for industries, with no shortage of power and a strong law and order system.
"We are focusing on building from within and that begins with a simple but powerful message: buy local. When we choose locally made products, we are not just supporting our businesses, we are strengthening our economy, sustaining livelihoods, and laying the foundation for a self-reliant Himachal Pradesh," he added.