Himachal's Annual Plan for 2007-08 fixed at Rs 2,100 cr

New Delhi, Jan 17 (UNI) The 2007-08 Annual Plan for Himachal Pradesh was today fixed at Rs 2,100 crore, which includes Rs 380 crore as special Central assistance.

The Plan size, which is Rs 300 crore more than last year's figure, was finalised at a meeting between State Chief Minister Virbhadra Singh and Planning Commission Deputy Chairman Montek Singh Ahluwalia here.

The Chief Minister said highest priority will be given to social services sector, which will account for nearly 42 per cent share of the Plan size.

There will be focused attention on improving water supply, sanitation, transport and communication, and irrigation, he said.

Mr Ahluwalia complimented the State government for showing substantial improvement in education and health sectors.

''Though the progress in the agriculture sector is quite impressive, market linkages need to be improved to supplement growth in the horticulture field,'' he said and also advised the State to give focused attention to promoting art and craft.

He also asked the State government to evolve a long-term road map for development and strengthening of highways, and explore the possibility of public private partnership in that area.

He also suggested to the Chief Minister to work towards encouraging high-value tourism.

UNI