Shimla, Aug. 1 -- Cash-strapped Himachal turned to revival of the state-run lotteries to boost revenue. The state cabinet on Thursday gave its nod to initiate the operation of lotteries in the state that has been banned since 1999.

The move aims at increasing the state's revenue amid declining central allocations and the withdrawal of GST compensation. The debt burden of the state government has already crossed Rs.1 lakh crore and the state government is looking for measures to generate revenue.

Lottery was banned in the state by the Himachal government headed by BJP leader Prem Kumar Dhumal in 1999 and made its violation punishable under Lotteries (Regulation) Act.

Industry minister Harshwardhan Chauhan said the government expects to ...