In a significant move towards environmental conservation and increasing green cover, the State Government, under the dynamic leadership of Chief Minister Thakur Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu, has launched the “Mukhya Mantri Van Vistaar Yojna”. The scheme aims to expand the forest cover in the hilly state, leading to positive ecological and socio-economic impacts extending beyond the borders.
The state cabinet recently gave its nod to start this scheme. Elaborating on the ambitious scheme, the Chief Minister said: “Himachal Pradesh is known for its picturesque landscapes and rich biodiversity. The State holds a crucial responsibility in safeguarding the fragile Himalayan ecosystems and by introducing ‘Mukhya Mantri Van Vistaar Yojna’ the focus is on tree plantations in spacious barren hills in the State. By undertaking plantation drives in such barren areas, the State Government is looking to efficiently tackle the problem of soil erosion and excessive run-off on degraded and vulnerable slopes.
This, indeed, will further strengthen the state’s environmental resilience.” According to the National Forest Policy of 1988, hilly and mountain regions are required to maintain two-thirds of their geographical area under forest and tree cover. Under “Mukhya Mantri Van Vistaar Yojna”, this year the State Government plans to undertake the plantation of eco-friendly species on approximately 257 hectares of barren hilltops across Himachal Pradesh. To ensure the survival and success of the afforestation initiative, local communities will be actively involved in maintaining the selected areas for a period of seven years.
Additionally, a dedicated Task Force within the Forest Department will be established to oversee and monitor the proper implementation of the program. While emphasizing the significance of a robust monitoring mechanism for the plantation’s survival, the Chief Minister said that the Task Force will meet at least once every fortnight during the plantation season to review progress and coordinate with field units, ensuring timely execution of the afforestation works.
Further, the government intends to encourage various non-governmental agencies, individuals, Self Help Groups, and Joint Forest Management Committees to adopt the plantation sites, promoting community involvement in this crucial environmental endeavour. The Mukhya Mantri Van Vistaar Yojna is not only expected to increase the forest cover, but it will also play a vital role in eradicating wild weeds on hilltops, contributing significantly to environmental conservation. Moreover, the initiative will generate employment and self-employment opportunities for the people of the state, fostering sustainable development.
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