Himachal Pradesh Launches Rajiv Gandhi Van Samvardhan Yojana
In a recent initiative, Himachal Pradesh’s Chief Minister Thakur Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu launched the ‘Rajiv Gandhi Van Samvardhan Yojana’ in Hamirpur. This scheme aims to enhance environmental conservation through community participation in forest management. The government seeks to increase green cover by planting fruit-bearing trees in barren and degraded forest areas. This initiative also promises to generate employment and income for local communities, particularly targeting women and youth groups.
Objectives of the Scheme
The primary goal of the Rajiv Gandhi Van Samvardhan Yojana is to restore the ecological balance by increasing forest cover. The scheme focuses on planting fruit-bearing trees, which can provide both food and economic benefits. It encourages community involvement, ensuring that local groups actively participate in afforestation efforts. This approach aims to empower women and youth, encouraging a sense of ownership over local natural resources.
Role of Local Communities
Local communities play important role in the implementation of this scheme. The government has engaged mahila mandals and self-help groups to carry out plantation activities. These groups will maintain the planted areas for five years, ensuring the longevity of the initiative. The involvement of local communities not only enhances the effectiveness of the scheme but also strengthens social ties and promotes environmental stewardship.
Corporate and NGO Participation
The scheme also encourages private enterprises and NGOs to adopt barren forest land for afforestation. Companies like Ambuja, Adani Foundation, and Ultra-Tech have committed to undertake plantation activities on designated hectares. This collaboration between the government and private sector aims to enhance social responsibility and contribute to environmental conservation efforts.
Appointment of Van Mitras
To address staffing shortages in the forest department, the government has appointed ‘Van Mitras’. These individuals, including many young women, are tasked with forest protection and community engagement. Their responsibilities extend beyond mere conservation; they are expected to educate rural communities about the importance of forests and actively participate in plantation drives.
Government Commitment to Green Initiatives
The Himachal Pradesh government is committed to transforming the state into a ‘Green State’. This vision involves various initiatives to enhance forest wealth and promote sustainable practices. The Van Mitra Yojana is step towards achieving this goal, with a focus on creating job opportunities and raising awareness about forest conservation.
Additional Initiatives
Alongside the Van Samvardhan Yojana, the Chief Minister announced the opening of three wellness centres in Hamirpur. He also launched a mobile application to facilitate attendance tracking for Van Mitras. These initiatives reflect the government’s broader commitment to community welfare and environmental sustainability.
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