MoUs SIGNED WITH RED APPLE AND PARADISE CHATEAU IN KULLU, A NEW INITIATIVE FOR ECOLOGICAL RESTORATION AND SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT IN HIMACHAL PRADESH
Face2News/Kullu
The Government of Himachal Pradesh has launched the Rajiv Gandhi Green Adoption Scheme with the objective of promoting ecological restoration, enhancing green cover, and encouraging public participation in environmental conservation across the State. The scheme provides an innovative platform for corporate entities, educational institutions, organizations, and individuals to partner with the Forest Department in afforestation and the restoration of degraded forest lands.
As part of this initiative, the Himachal Pradesh Forest Department signed Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) with two private institutions—Red Apple and Paradise Chateau—at Kullu. The MoUs were signed in the presence of Dr. Sanjay Sood, Principal Chief Conservator of Forests (HoFF) and Chief Project Director, JICA Forestry Project, and Mr. Sandeep Sharma, Conservator of Forests, Kullu Circle.
Speaking on the occasion, Dr. Sanjay Sood said that under the scheme, eligible institutions can adopt forest areas identified by the Forest Department for plantation, eco-restoration, and maintenance activities in accordance with the Department’s approved technical guidelines. The initiative aims to conserve biodiversity, strengthen climate resilience, promote soil and water conservation, and generate sustainable livelihood opportunities for local communities.
He further stated that the scheme has been designed to facilitate investments under Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) while ensuring scientific planning, continuous monitoring, and the long-term sustainability of plantation activities. The ownership and management of the adopted forest land will remain with the State Government, and all interventions will be carried out under the supervision of the Forest Department.
Dr. Sood reiterated the State Government’s commitment to building a greener and environmentally sustainable Himachal Pradesh. He said that the Rajiv Gandhi Green Adoption Scheme would serve as a significant milestone in environmental conservation through active public participation and collaboration with various institutions. The initiative is expected to enhance forest cover, restore degraded ecosystems, and promote environmental awareness among citizens.
Dr. Sanjay Sood, Principal Chief Conservator of Forests (HoFF) and Chief Project Director, JICA Forestry Project, arrived in Kullu on a two-day visit. During the tour, he chaired a review meeting with departmental officers to assess the progress of the JICA Forestry Project and other departmental activities.
Dr. Sood also visited Nature Park, Babeli, where he emphasized the importance of maintaining environmental cleanliness and ecological standards to promote sustainable tourism. He reviewed the ongoing activities in the park and planted a Chinar sapling as part of the plantation drive.
Appealing to corporate organizations, educational institutions, non-governmental organizations, industrial establishments, and other stakeholders, Dr. Sood urged them to join the Rajiv Gandhi Green Adoption Scheme and partner with the Forest Department in conserving and enriching Himachal Pradesh’s rich natural heritage. He emphasized that collective efforts would help create a cleaner, greener, and more sustainable future for generations to come.
