New Delhi, Dec 31: Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Prem Kumar Dhumal met Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh here today. Dr. Singh promised Dhumal of all possible support from the Centre to make the state economically strong.

“Dr Singh has assured me regarding setting up of a central high school and an IIT (Indian Institute of Technology) in Himachal,” Dhumal told reporters after meeting Dr. Singh.

Dr Singh has also assured the Chief Minister about expediting the work of laying down Baddi-Chandigarh and Nangal-Talwara rail lines.

Besides, Dr. Singh has promised formulations of policies for the State’s development in upcoming years.

Dhumal also sought enhancement of financial package for the state’s industry.

“He (Dr. Singh) said we will work together to make Himachal Pradesh an ideal state. We will strengthen it economically and make it an education hub," Dhumal said.

This is Dhumal’s first visit to the Capital after being sworn-in as the 16th Chief Minister of Himachal Pradesh on December 30.

Dhumal, a three-time MLA, had earlier headed the BJP Government from 1998-2003. He is said to be the first Chief Minister, who was administered the oath of the Chief Minister's office at a public ceremony.

Dhumal won from Bamsan in Hamirpur District, defeating Congress candidate Col (R) BC Lagwal by 26,000 votes.

After winning nearly two-third seats in Gujarat earlier this week, the BJP scored a comfortable victory in the state, bagging 41 seats in the 68-member Assembly.

The party has returned to power in the state after a gap of five years. This was its best performance in the state, with having increased its vote share by nearly 12 per cent.

On the other hand, the Congress won 23 seats and the Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) won one seat. Independents bagged the remaining three seats. (ANI)