Current Affairs - State - Discussion

Himachal Pradesh implemented a Widow and Orphan Cess on the sale of petrol and high-speed diesel from August 11, 2026. The cess is levied at 60 paise per litre and is collected at the first point of sale within the state. The measure was introduced under Section 6-A of the Himachal Pradesh Value Added Tax Act, 2005, following the passage of the Himachal Pradesh Value Added Tax (Amendment) Bill, 2026. The revenue generated through the cess is specifically earmarked for the welfare of widows and orphaned children. Himachal Pradesh became the 18th state of India on January 25, 1971.