Himachal Pradesh Government Launches 'Mukhya Mantri Van Vistaar Yojana' to Expand Green Cover and Prevent Soil Erosion

The Himachal Pradesh government is set to launch the 'Mukhya Mantri Van Vistaar Yojana,' a scheme aimed at increasing the green cover in the state. The decision was made during a recent state Cabinet meeting chaired by Chief Minister Thakur Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu. The scheme's primary objective is to expand the green cover by reclaiming barren areas of hills and mountains, with a focus on preventing soil erosion and excessive runoff on vulnerable slopes.

To ensure successful implementation, a Task Force will be established under the leadership of the Principal Chief Conservator of Forests. This Task Force will oversee the project's execution and management. The maintenance of the selected areas will be outsourced for a duration of seven years, with a preference for involving local inhabitants in the plantation and maintenance work, promoting community participation.

Additionally, the state Cabinet also decided to create a Project Management Unit within the Revenue Department, dedicated to handling natural calamities effectively. To support this, 14 positions of various categories will be established and filled. Overall, the 'Mukhya Mantri Van Vistaar Yojana' aims to boost the green cover in Himachal Pradesh, combat soil erosion, and improve environmental conditions in the state while involving local communities in conservation efforts.

The Cabinet also made decisions regarding various matters. Firstly, it agreed to implement the HP Nautor Rules of 1968 for a duration of two years, but with certain conditions. The designated area for this implementation should not fall within National Parks, Sanctuaries, Conservation Reserves, Community Reserves, Reserve Forests, or Demarcated Projected Forests. Only a maximum of two trees standing on the land will be allowed as Nautor, and they will be provided for domestic purposes only. Additionally, individuals involved in any forest-related offences will not be eligible for this provision.

The Cabinet made several significant decisions. Firstly, it agreed to review the process of hydroelectric project leases comprehensively and provide recommendations for an appropriate lease amount. Additionally, the Cabinet approved the Himachal Pradesh Goods and Services Tax Bill, 2023, which incorporates recommendations from the GST Council.

Furthermore, the Cabinet granted approval for drafting the Himachal Pradesh Municipal Corporations, Municipal Council, and Nagar Panchayat maintenance of Parivar Register Rules, 2023. These rules aim to maintain accurate records of families residing in urban areas.

In an effort to enhance medical facilities, the Cabinet decided to create and fill 136 additional positions for nursing and para-medical staff. This move is intended to ensure the 24/7 functionality of the Trauma Centre and Emergency Medicine Department at IGMC, Shimla, encompassing six related departments – Neurosurgery, Radiology, Plastic Surgery, Anaesthesia, Orthopaedics, and General Surgery – for the benefit of patients.