Una, March 13:- Deputy Chief Minister and Minister of Jal Shakti, Mukesh Agnihotri, stated that a comprehensive scheme worth approximately ?2,000 crore will be implemented in the state to improve the quality of drinking water and modernize water purification systems. He expressed his gratitude to Chief Minister Thakur Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu for announcing this ambitious initiative during a public meeting held in Bangana, within the Kutlehar Assembly constituency.
Agnihotri noted that under the proposed scheme, modern technology-based water purification systems will be established; this will ensure the availability of clean and safe drinking water for the residents of the state and also lead to a reduction in waterborne diseases. He added that the Jal Shakti Department would implement this scheme in a phased manner.
The Deputy Chief Minister was addressing a public gathering held in Bangana following the laying of the foundation stone by the Chief Minister for the augmentation of various water supply schemes in the Lathiani and Dhundla regions, at a cost of approximately ?15 crore. He informed that this project would benefit thousands of people across the Budhan, Chamyari, Deungli, Lathiani, and Tanoh Panchayats.
He further stated that work is currently in progress on projects worth approximately ?1,000 crore related to drinking water and irrigation in the Una district. Additionally, in the Kutlehar Assembly constituency, work on 16 schemes—pertaining to drinking water, irrigation, and sewerage—is proceeding rapidly at a cost of approximately ?121 crore; this will further strengthen the water management infrastructure in the region.
Agnihotri also mentioned that efforts have been undertaken to bolster the drinking water supply for the Mata Chintpurni Temple and the surrounding Panchayats, while work continues on a project aimed at enhancing amenities for devotees within the temple complex. He added that efforts are also underway to secure early approval for a new drinking water scheme worth approximately ?47 crore for the Kutlehar region. 

*Punjab Should Examine Its Own Situation Before Commenting on Himachal*
Reacting to a statement made by Punjab's Finance Minister, the Deputy Chief Minister stated that the Punjab government should take a look at its own financial situation before making any comments regarding Himachal Pradesh. He noted that Punjab's debt burden has surged to approximately ?4.50 lakh crore.
He further pointed out that the Supreme Court has directed the BBMB to pay ?4,500 crore to Himachal Pradesh; however, Punjab has yet to release this amount. Furthermore, the issues concerning the Shanan Project and Himachal's 7.16 percent share in Chandigarh have also remained pending for a considerable period.
Agnihotri asserted that attempts are being made to deprive Himachal Pradesh of its statutory rights. He stated in unequivocal terms that while Himachal may indeed be a small state, it knows full well how to safeguard its rights. He remarked, "We are people of the hills, but we fear no one. Before pointing a finger at Himachal, Punjab should engage in some introspection."

*Appreciation for MLA Vivek Sharma's Efforts*
The Deputy Chief Minister commended MLA Vivek Sharma for playing an active role in accelerating development works within the Kutlehar Assembly constituency, noting that he is continuously working towards the region's progress while standing in solidarity with the local people through their joys and sorrows.