Himachal Pradesh has demanded Rs 27,556 crore during the 12th Five-Year Plan period (2012-17) from the Planning Commission, almost double of what was approved for the 11th Plan. Chief Minister Prem Kumar Dhumal in two-day session with the MLAs invited suggestions for faster and balanced development of the state during the next Five-Year Plan period and also as part of the mid-term appraisal of the annual plan. Dhumal reiterated the government’s resolve for speedy development and ensuring socio-economic justice to all sections. He said the government has set a target of 9.5 per cent growth rate. He said for MLAs priority schemes, a target of Rs 300 crore had been fixed for 2011-12 and up to end of August, sanctions amounting to Rs 163 crore had been received. Full amount would be sanctioned by the end of this financial year. Leader of the Opposition Vidya Stokes wanted due weightage to be given to recommendations of MLAs in policy formulation, optimum utilisation of public funds and efficient administration. She urged for according top priority to Behna drinking water supply scheme, staff in educational and health institutions. She appreciated the achievements in tourism sector and demanded monorail for Shimla town.