The Himachal Pradesh Forest Department has signed memorandums of understanding with two private institutions—Red Apple and Paradise Chateau—in Kullu on Monday as part of the newly launched Rajiv Gandhi Green Adoption Scheme. The initiative, announced by the state government, aims to promote ecological restoration, enhance green cover, and encourage public participation in environmental conservation.
Scheme details and objectives
Under the scheme, corporate entities, educational institutions, organisations, and individuals can partner with the Forest Department to adopt degraded forest areas for afforestation, eco-restoration, and maintenance activities. 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.
Dr Sood explained that eligible institutions can adopt forest areas identified by the department for plantation and restoration 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.
CSR and government oversight
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.
“Collective efforts will help create a cleaner, greener, and more sustainable future for generations to come,” Dr Sood emphasised, calling 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.
Review of JICA Forestry Project
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.
The HoFF urged corporate organisations, educational institutions, NGOs, industrial establishments, and other stakeholders to join the scheme and partner with the Forest Department in conserving Himachal’s natural heritage. The scheme marks a significant step toward harnessing public-private partnerships for lasting ecological restoration in the region.
