CM Sukhu emphasized the need to strike a delicate balance between development and environmental protection to ensure a secure, prosperous, and green Himachal Pradesh for future generations. He urged the youth to actively participate in forest conservation and environmental initiatives.
Referring to the increasing frequency of climate-related disasters, including the ones witnessed in 2023 and again in 2025, the Chief Minister highlighted the crucial role of the Village Forest Management Societies (VFMS). He said these societies must work in close coordination with the Forest Department to curb illegal activities in forests. In recognition of their efforts, the government will also honour active VFMS groups. To address the shortage of forest field staff, the government has initiated the appointment of ‘Van Mitras’ to aid in forest protection.
Underlining the state’s commitment to becoming India’s first Green Energy State, CM Sukhu said that various long-term initiatives have been undertaken over the past two and a half years. These include policies on green energy, eco-tourism, sustainable waste management, and natural farming to boost environmental sustainability and conserve fragile ecosystems.
He also laid the foundation stone of North India’s first Green Hydrogen Plant at Dabhota in Nalagarh Tehsil of Solan district — a major milestone in Himachal’s green energy journey.
A significant shift towards solar energy is underway, with surveys being conducted to develop 325 MW of solar power capacity, and seven projects totaling 72 MW already allotted in early 2025. Additionally, the state is setting up 200 Green Panchayats by installing 200-kilowatt solar plants in each. The construction of green corridors, introduction of electric vehicles, and launch of the Green School Programme are other key steps being implemented to reduce carbon emissions and promote clean energy alternatives.
To curb plastic usage, the government will distribute 60,000 stainless steel water bottles to school children and has made regulations around plastic use more stringent. Agreements have also been signed with cement plants to co-process non-recyclable plastic waste, ensuring its environmentally safe disposal.
The Chief Minister shared that the Annual Plan of Operation 2025-26 under CAMPA has been approved, with Rs. 143.35 crore allocated for afforestation and other forest management activities.
In another digital push for environmental enforcement, the government launched the “Plastic Challaning Mobile App”, enabling officers from 13 departments to issue challans digitally, eliminating paperwork and improving transparency.
Further, the government has issued guidelines to promote eco-villages, which aim to integrate sustainable practices into local-level development.
CM Sukhu reiterated that these collective efforts are aligned with the state’s long-term vision of environmental stewardship, energy sustainability, and responsible development.
