CM Sukhu launched two major green initiatives — the ‘Rajiv Gandhi Van Samvardhan Yojana’ and the ‘Green Adoption Scheme’ — from Hamirpur today, emphasizing the crucial role of community and corporate participation in forest conservation and environmental sustainability.
Addressing a gathering during the passing-out parade of newly appointed Van Mitras, the Chief Minister said these schemes represent a strong push towards making Himachal Pradesh a Green State, while also generating employment opportunities and encouraging grassroots participation in afforestation and forest management.
Under the Rajiv Gandhi Van Samvardhan Yojana, barren and degraded forest lands will be restored through the plantation of fruit-bearing trees, with active involvement from Mahila Mandals, Yuvak Mandals, and self-help groups. Certificates were handed over to two Mahila Mandals from Nadaun — Amlehad and Bhawdan — who will undertake plantation work on two hectares each and maintain the green cover for five years.
The Green Adoption Scheme was launched to encourage private enterprises, corporate houses, and NGOs to adopt forest lands and carry out afforestation as part of their corporate social responsibility (CSR). In its first phase, Ambuja Cement will plant trees over 25 hectares, while Adani Foundation and UltraTech Cement will each adopt 10 hectares. The Chief Minister presented official recognition certificates to these organizations.
Inspecting the Van Mitras’ passing-out parade, the Chief Minister acknowledged their role in addressing the shortage of field staff in the Forest Department. He highlighted the merit-based recruitment process and the increasing participation of young women in these roles. “Van Mitras are not just forest guards,” he said, “they are guardians of our green future and a bridge between the department and the rural population.”
Sukhu urged the Van Mitras to actively involve communities in preventing illegal logging, raising awareness, preventing forest fires, and supporting plantation drives. He emphasized that their oath is a sacred responsibility, not a mere formality, and expressed confidence in their contribution toward preserving the state’s green heritage.
Furthering his commitment to public welfare, the CM also announced the opening of three new wellness centres under the Hamirpur Municipal Corporation. He released a souvenir titled “Samvaad”, dedicated to Van Mitras, and launched a book titled “The Mountainous Wilderness of Spiti” along with a mobile application to track Van Mitras’ attendance and field activities.
In recognition of excellence in service, the Chief Minister honoured Palampur Block Officer Rakesh Kumar and Chamba Conservator Abhilash Damodar along with their teams.
Additional Chief Secretary (Forests) K.K. Pant and PCCF (HoFF) Sameer Rastogi also addressed the gathering and shared updates on forest schemes and training initiatives.
The event saw the presence of several dignitaries, including MLA Captain Ranjit Singh Rana, CM’s Political Advisor Sunil Sharma, and various state officials and Congress leaders.
These initiatives mark a major milestone in Himachal Pradesh’s journey toward sustainable environmental management, community-driven afforestation, and strengthening of forest infrastructure at the grassroots level.
