The State Level Steering Committee (SLSC) on sustainable development convened a crucial meeting today under the chairmanship of Chief Secretary Prabodh Saxena, focusing on the preparation of the upcoming State Human Development Report (HDR) and the State’s climate action initiatives.
The meeting brought together senior officials from various stakeholder departments to review ongoing climate policies and governance. Participants deliberated on comprehensive strategies to ensure sustainable development across Himachal Pradesh, proposing actionable measures to launch a broad, integrated campaign aimed at achieving the State’s development goals.
Chief Secretary Saxena directed departments to evaluate existing resources and frameworks while acknowledging funding shortages and bureaucratic hurdles in mobilizing new financial support. Emphasizing the interdependence of sectors, he stated, “Agriculture, water, and forestry are interlinked, and disturbance in one adversely affects the others.”
Warning against complacency, he highlighted that “business as usual” will not address the magnitude of challenges faced, especially in light of severe natural calamities impacting lives in recent years. Saxena called for a fundamental change in approach, emphasizing that development planning must be holistic, inclusive, and participatory, incorporating the State’s unique geography, local aspirations, and community needs.
Looking ahead, the Chief Secretary stressed that sustainable development should be integrated, data-driven, and community-led to build climate resilience and promote human development. He underscored that a sustainable development model tailored for a Himalayan state like Himachal Pradesh must reflect its historical progress, national significance, and leadership vision.
Earlier in the meeting, Amee Misra of UNDP presented insights on the State Human Development Report, highlighting its alignment with the State’s climate action, policy, and governance frameworks.
The meeting was also attended by Secretary to CM Rakesh Kanwar, Secretary JSV Rakhil Kahlon, HoFF Sanjay Sood, CCF K. Thirumal, Director SDMA D.C. Rana, and APCCF (Projects) P.K. Rana, among other senior officials.
