Himachal Ranks 3rd in NITI Aayog’s Investment Index
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Shimla, July 25: Himachal Pradesh has secured the 3rd position among Hilly and North-Eastern States in the Investment Friendliness Index (IFI) 2026 released by NITI Aayog and has been placed in the ‘Frontrunner’ category, reflecting the state’s sustained efforts to improve its investment ecosystem and ease of doing business.
Welcoming the achievement, Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu said the ranking reflects the government’s consistent focus on implementing the Business Reforms Action Plan (BRAP) and creating a transparent, efficient and investor-friendly business environment.
“Our Government has consistently focused on BRAP, thereby enhancing Ease of Doing Business. The State’s top ranking reflects the success of our reform-oriented approach and commitment towards creating a transparent, efficient and investor-friendly ecosystem,” the Chief Minister said.
The report highlights Himachal Pradesh’s strengths in human resources, women workforce participation, institutional effectiveness, regulatory environment and investor-friendly governance, making the state an attractive investment destination.
The state secured first rank in the Infrastructure Pillar for its strong performance in logistics, digital connectivity, power infrastructure and industrial facilitation. It also ranked first in the Resources Pillar, driven by high labour force participation, strong human resource indicators and one of the highest women workforce participation rates in the country.
Himachal Pradesh secured fourth rank in the Regulatory Ease Pillar, reflecting a conducive business environment and effective investor facilitation mechanisms. The state also performed strongly in the Institutional Environment Pillar due to low cybercrime incidence, an effective grievance redressal system and a stable regulatory framework. It ranked fifth in the Business Climate Pillar, highlighting the impact of ongoing governance and business reforms.
Industries Minister Harshwardhan Chauhan said the recognition acknowledges the state government’s efforts to strengthen the investment ecosystem and reaffirmed its commitment to promoting industrial growth, attracting investments and creating employment opportunities across Himachal Pradesh.
Principal Secretary (Industries) M. Sudha Devi said Himachal Pradesh has also been placed in the ‘Top Achievers’ category for its performance in Construction Permit Enablers, Healthcare Sector Reforms and Services Sector Reforms.
She added that the State Single Window System currently provides 180 services across 30 departments, ensuring faster and more efficient service delivery for investors and enterprises. The Department of Industries will continue implementing progressive reforms to further strengthen the state’s competitiveness and enhance investor confidence.
