Rajiv Gandhi Van Samvardhan Yojana Launched to Boost Green Cover in Himachal

In a major push for environmental conservation and community empowerment, Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu launched the Rajiv Gandhi Van Samvardhan Yojana from Hamirpur on June 2, 2025. The scheme aims to increase the state’s green cover by planting fruit-bearing trees on degraded forest lands while promoting employment generation and community involvement through Mahila Mandals, Yuvak Mandals, and self-help groups (SHGs).

Why in News?

The launch of the Rajiv Gandhi Van Samvardhan Yojana and the Green Adoption Scheme marks a strategic move by the Himachal Pradesh government to combine climate action with grassroots participation. With Himachal facing a shortage of field forest staff and growing ecological challenges, these initiatives aim to restore forest health, involve citizens, and generate local employment, especially for women and youth.

Key Features of Rajiv Gandhi Van Samvardhan Yojana

• Launch Date: June 2, 2025
• Location: Hamirpur, Himachal Pradesh
• Main Objective: Increase forest green cover using fruit-bearing plantations on barren or degraded forest land.

Targeted Stakeholders

• Mahila Mandals
• Yuvak Mandals
• Self-Help Groups (SHGs)
• Employment Generation: Local communities will be paid for plantation and maintenance for five years.
• Certificates Issued: To Amlehad and Bhawdan Mahila Mandals of Nadaun for plantation on 2 hectares each.

Green Adoption Scheme Highlights

• Encourages corporate participation in afforestation.

Initial Phase,

• Ambuja Company: 25 hectares
• Adani Foundation: 10 hectares
• UltraTech: 10 hectares
• Recognition: Certificates handed to these firms for their participation.

Van Mitra Appointments and Women’s Role

• Passing-Out Parade: Held for newly appointed Van Mitras.
• Purpose: Address the shortage of forest field staff.
• Merit-Based Recruitment: Many young women were among the selected.
• Government Assurance: CM Sukhu assured future policy support for career growth of Van Mitras.

Broader Women Empowerment Focus

• Reservation in Police: Increased to 30% for women.
• Lahaul-Spiti Administration: All key officers, including Deputy Commissioner, are women.
• Reflects a policy shift toward gender-inclusive governance.