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Himachal Gifts Chilgoza Saplings to Bhutan to Strengthen Green Ties

Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Sukhu flagged off a vehicle carrying chilgoza saplings as a gift to Bhutan, calling it a green initiative to strengthen friendly ties. The state will also provide Rs 5 lakh worth of chilgoza seeds and training to Bhutan's forest officials on cultivating the high-value pine nut species. The government highlighted its broader forest conservation efforts, including an increase in the state's forest area by approximately 55 square kilometres. Initiatives like the Chief Minister Van Vistar Yojana and the appointment of Van Mitras are part of ongoing work to expand green cover and involve local communities.

Key Points: Himachal Gifts Chilgoza Saplings to Bhutan to Boost Ties

  • Chilgoza saplings gifted to Bhutan
  • Rs 5 lakh seeds & training to be provided
  • Focus on biodiversity & local livelihoods
  • State forest area increased by 55 sq km
  • 2,019 Van Mitras appointed since 2019
2 min read

Himachal gifts 'chilgoza' saplings to Bhutan

Himachal CM Sukhvinder Sukhu flags off chilgoza saplings for Bhutan to strengthen environmental and diplomatic bonds between the Himalayan neighbours.

"This green initiative will further strengthen the bond of friendship between the two neighbours. - Sukhvinder Sukhu"

Shimla, Jan 12

Strengthening the long-standing friendly and amicable relations with Bhutan, Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Sukhu on Monday flagged off a vehicle from here carrying chilgoza saplings as a gift to Bhutan.

The Chief Minister said India and Bhutan share warm and cordial relations, and this green initiative will further strengthen the bond of friendship between the two neighbours.

He said Himachal Pradesh and Bhutan have similar Himalayan natural heritage. The Himachal Pradesh Forest Department would also provide chilgoza seeds of Rs 5 lakh to Bhutan soon.

In addition, training would be given to Bhutan's forest officials on how to grow chilgoza plants.

'Chilgoza' (pine nuts) is a unique and highly valuable species of the western Himalayas. It is closely linked with environmental protection, biodiversity and local livelihood.

A team from Bhutan's Forest Department would soon visit Himachal for this purpose. The state government would involve local women's groups in chilgoza-based activities and provide them with financial support.

Efforts related to 'chilgoza' cultivation and development would be further expanded. The Chief Minister said earlier also 50 kg chilgoza seeds had also been provided to Bhutan.

The Chief Minister said the government is taking several steps to promote forest conservation and expand forest cover.

As a result of government efforts, the forest area of the state has increased by approximately 55 square kilometres.

This year, plantation work is being carried out on around 9,000 hectares of forest land under various schemes and projects, with 60 per cent fruit-bearing plants.

To increase the green cover, 600 hectares of plantation are being undertaken on barren hills under the Chief Minister Van Vistar Yojana. Additionally, 2,019 Van Mitras have been appointed for forest protection and management since 2019.

- IANS

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Reader Comments

R
Rajesh Q
Excellent initiative. Bhutan is a true friend and a responsible neighbor. Sharing knowledge and seeds for sustainable forestry is the way forward. Hope this also boosts livelihoods for women's groups in Himachal.
A
Aman W
While the gesture is good, I hope our own forest department is equally focused on local needs. Chilgoza is valuable for our ecology and economy too. Let's ensure we have enough for our people first.
S
Sarah B
As someone who loves trekking in the Himalayas, this is fantastic news. Protecting biodiversity through cross-border cooperation is crucial. The training for forest officials is a smart, long-term investment in our shared environment.
V
Vikram M
Good to see the focus on increasing forest cover in HP as well. 55 sq km increase and involving Van Mitras is praiseworthy. Hope the chilgoza plants thrive in Bhutan. Our ties with them are special and must be nurtured.
N
Nisha Z
Sharing seeds and expertise is the best kind of gift. It's sustainable and builds capacity. The involvement of local women's groups here is also a great step. More power to such initiatives! 🙏

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