Empowering Communities: Himachal's Green Revolution

The Himachal Pradesh Forest Department has set an ambitious target to plant over 4,000 hectares of forest with the help of 1,100 community groups under the Rajiv Gandhi Van Samvardhan Yojana (RGVSY) for this financial year. Officials confirmed a robust engagement plan on Saturday, highlighting the state's commitment to afforestation.

According to a recent statement, 60 percent of the participating groups will be led by women, with youth groups and other self-help organizations sharing the remaining 40 percent. The scheme has secured a budget allocation of Rs 55 crore, aiming to employ around 15,000 women in plantation efforts.

Performance-based incentives have been designed to encourage these groups, with rewards of Rs 1 lakh for every two hectares if plant survival rates exceed 50 percent after a year. This involves planting diverse species, including fruit-bearing trees, ensuring community involvement and promoting ecological restoration. The initiative not only enhances forest cover but also strengthens rural livelihoods.

(With inputs from agencies.)