Shimla, Feb. 1 -- Himachal Pradesh Public Works Minister Vikramaditya Singh on Sunday expressed deep disappointment with the Union Budget presented on Sunday. He stated that the absence of a provision for revenue deficit grants for Himachal Pradesh, despite its being a disaster-affected, hilly state, is extremely concerning.

The minister pointed out that the revenue deficit grant received by Himachal Pradesh under the recommendations of the Finance Commission has been steadily decreasing in recent years and has now been practically eliminated, whereas, given the state's financial situation and the heavy losses incurred due to natural disasters, support should have been increased, not reduced.

Vikramaditya Singh said that Himachal Prades...