Shimla, April 6
The Himachal Pradesh government aims to increase the state’s forest cover from 29.50 per cent to 32 per cent by 2030, with the initiative formally announced as Mission 32 Per Cent under the 2026-27 state budget, a government spokesperson said. Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu had said the decision marks a major step towards making Himachal a green Himalayan state and is expected to enhance biodiversity. The spokesperson said the target goes beyond figures. “It is part of a larger plan to fight climate change, keep the environment balanced, and support sustainable development,” he said.
Over the past three years, the state government has introduced several programmes aimed at expanding forest cover, protecting existing forests and involving local communities. Among these, the Mukhyamantri Van Vistaar Yojana focuses on turning barren and unproductive hills into green landscapes. In its first year, plantation activities were carried out across nearly 600 hectares of barren land. Of the saplings being planted on forest land, 60 per cent are fruit-bearing varieties.
The government is also implementing the Rajiv Gandhi Van Samvardhan Yojana to rejuvenate forest areas through large-scale plantation supported by financial provisions for maintenance. Under the scheme, Rs 1.20 lakh per hectare is being provided to cover both plantation and the long-term upkeep of saplings.
Both schemes are being carried out through self-help groups, Mahila Mandals and youth groups, generating employment at the ground level and strengthening the rural economy, the spokesperson said.
