The Himachal Pradesh Government has launched the Rajiv Gandhi Green Adoption Scheme to promote ecological restoration, enhance green cover and encourage public participation in environmental conservation. The initiative provides a platform for corporate entities, educational institutions, organisations and individuals to partner with the Forest Department in afforestation and restoration of degraded forest lands.
As part of the rollout, the Himachal Pradesh Forest Department signed memorandums of understanding (MoUs) with two private institutions, Red Apple and Paradise Chateau, at Kullu on Monday. The agreements were signed in the presence of Dr Sanjay Sood, Principal Chief Conservator of Forests (HoFF) and Chief Project Director of the JICA Forestry Project and Sandeep Sharma, Conservator of Forests, Kullu Circle.
Speaking on the occasion, the HoFF explained that under the scheme, eligible institutions can adopt forest areas identified by the department for plantation, eco-restoration and maintenance activities following 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.
The officer noted that the scheme facilitates investments under Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) while ensuring scientific planning, continuous monitoring and long-term sustainability of plantation activities. Ownership and management of adopted forest land will remain with the state government and all interventions will be supervised by the Forest Department.
Reiterating the government’s commitment to a greener Himachal Pradesh, Dr Sood called the scheme a milestone in environmental conservation through active public participation. The initiative is expected to significantly enhance forest cover, restore degraded ecosystems and raise environmental awareness among citizens.
During a two-day visit to Kullu, Dr Sood chaired a review meeting with departmental officers to assess progress of the JICA Forestry Project and other activities. He also visited Nature Park, Babeli, where he stressed the importance of maintaining environmental cleanliness and ecological standards to promote sustainable tourism. He reviewed ongoing park activities and planted a Chinar sapling as part of the plantation drive.
Urging corporate organisations, educational institutions, NGOs, industrial establishments and other stakeholders, the HoFF urged them to join the scheme and partner with the Forest Department in conserving Himachal’s natural heritage. “Collective efforts will help create a cleaner, greener, and more sustainable future for generations to come,” he emphasised. The scheme marks a significant step toward harnessing public-private partnerships for lasting ecological restoration in the region.
