India
Supreme Court Orders Punjab, Haryana to Deliver 11,973 Million Units to Himachal Pradesh
On Friday, November 6, 2026, Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu described the Supreme Court’s order directing Punjab and Haryana to supply 11,973 million units of electricity to the state over 20 years as a historic victory for its people. The decision resolves a long‑standing dispute over Himachal Pradesh’s 7.19% share of power generated by the Bhakra‑Nangal and Beas hydroelectric projects. During lean season, the state will receive nearly 60 crore units annually, which could generate an estimated ₹10,000 crore to ₹20,000 crore in revenue over the 20‑year period, depending on electricity prices, according to Mr. Sukhu. He added that the order could bring up to ₹1,000 crore in additional annual revenue; at ₹6 per unit the state would earn at least ₹500 crore a year, while rates of ₹13–14 per unit would significantly increase returns. Mr. Sukhu credited the outcome to the state government’s sustained legal battle and determination to secure its financial rights, calling it the fourth major success in protecting Himachal Pradesh’s interests after earlier victories over Wildflower Hall, the Kishau Dam, and others. He also noted that the government is pursuing claims over the Shanan Power Project and the water cess. The additional revenue will be used to strengthen education and healthcare, improve road infrastructure, generate employment, and ensure timely payment of financial benefits to government employees. Congratulating the state’s nearly 75 lakh residents, Mr. Sukhu said protecting its resources and making Himachal Pradesh self‑reliant remain top priorities for his government. Published – November 07, 2026 01:30 am IST