Shimla, April 5 The Himachal Pradesh government has set a target to increase the state's forest cover from the existing 29.50 per cent to 32 per cent by the year 2030, a spokesperson said on Sunday.
The government, in its Budget for the 2026-27 fiscal, had announced an initiative, 'Mission 32 Per cent', he 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 target is not merely statistical; it is part of a broader strategy to address climate change, maintain ecological balance, and ensure sustainable development," the spokesperson added.
Highlighting the steps taken in this direction, he said that to achieve this objective, the state government over the past three years has introduced several innovative initiatives that integrate forest expansion, conservation, and community participation.
"Among these, the Mukhyamantri Van Vistaar Yojana stands as a key intervention. The scheme aims to convert barren and unproductive hills into green landscapes," he said.
In its very first year, plantation activities were carried out on nearly 600 hectares of barren land. Plantation is being undertaken on forest land through various projects, with 60 per cent of fruit-bearing saplings, he added.
The spokesperson also said that this approach not only strengthens environmental conservation but also creates future livelihood opportunities for local communities.
"Similarly, the Rajiv Gandhi Van Samvardhan Yojana represents a significant step towards the rejuvenation of forest areas. Large-scale plantation is being carried out on forest land, supported by dedicated financial provisions for maintenance, which is a major component of the scheme," he said.
He added that an amount of Rs 1.20 lakh per hectare is being provided to ensure not only the plantation but also the survival and proper upkeep of saplings.
The scheme is being implemented on the ground through self-help groups, Mahila Mandals, and youth groups, generating employment and strengthening the rural economy, the spokesperson said.