Himachal CM launches hibiscus scheme for biodiversity

Shimla, July 23 (IANS) In a significant step towards strengthening biodiversity conservation and promoting sustainable livelihoods, Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Sukhu on Thursday launched the Himachal Biodiversity Stakeholder‑led Conservation Unified Scheme (HiBiSCUS), a flagship initiative aimed at ecological restoration, biodiversity conservation and sustainable utilisation of biological resources through the active participation of local communities.

A sum of Rs 2 crore was released by the Himachal Pradesh State Biodiversity Board to the Forest Department for the implementation of the scheme, an official statement said.

Speaking on the occasion, the Chief Minister said HiBiSCUS represents a landmark initiative towards conserving Himachal Pradesh’s rich biological heritage while creating sustainable livelihood opportunities for rural communities.

He emphasised that the scheme will contribute to ecological restoration, climate resilience, conservation of medicinal plant resources and enhancement of farmers’ incomes through market‑linked interventions.

CM Sukhu said approximately two lakh farmers and 10,000 community groups of the state are expected to benefit from the scheme. A cost‑sharing model involving the State Biodiversity Board, industry partners and farmers will facilitate implementation while ensuring long‑term sustainability. Digital monitoring through geo‑tagged photographs, field inspections and online dashboards will ensure transparency and effective implementation, he added.

The Chief Minister further said the scheme marks another milestone in the state government’s commitment to environmental conservation, sustainable development and community‑led natural resource management, reinforcing Himachal Pradesh’s position as a leader in biodiversity conservation.

The scheme has adopted the framework of the Rajiv Gandhi Van Samvardhan Yojana and seeks to establish a biodiversity‑positive development model by integrating scientific management with traditional knowledge.

It also envisages strengthening Biodiversity Management Committees (BMCs), promoting the cultivation of priority medicinal plant species, improving habitat quality and ensuring equitable benefit sharing.

The scheme will support plantation on forest, community, private, and agricultural lands; conservation and cultivation of medicinal and aromatic plants; nursery development; capacity building; and market‑linked livelihood opportunities.

--IANS

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