Next BJP chief in Uttarakhand

The BJP is likely to get a new state president in Uttarakhand by the end of the year, with incumbent Bisan Singh Chausal’s term ending. Among those in the race are former chief minister Ramesh Chandra Pokhriyal and former minister Trivender Rawat. BJP sources also see a chance for former CM Bhagat Singh Koshyari. He is said to be reluctant but if he does become the party’s choice, he would be acceptable to all within the party. There are regional balances to consider. With Leader of the Opposition Ahay Bhatt already representing the Kumaoun region and Brahmin community, the BJP might prefer a state president from the Garhwal region, preferably a Thakur. 

Chief Minister Vijay Bahuguna has undertaken a special exercise to increase the government’s sources of revenue. The government recently decided to collect entry taxes from all vehicles registered outside the state and entering Uttarakhand. Government sources expect this will fetch around Rs 200 crore annually. The government has also withdrawn an earlier decision to give relief in VAT on petrol. There is also talk about a hike in road taxes.

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