Shimla, June 25
Himachal Pradesh’s significant contributions to national development and environmental conservation are not being adequately reflected in the financial allocations from the central government.
In a press statement today, Dr. Kuldeep Singh Tanwar, State President of Himachal Kisan Sabha and a retired Forest Officer, highlighted the urgent need for financial support and compensation for the state.
Dr. Tanwar mentioned that a memorandum had been submitted to the chairperson of the 16th Finance Commission the previous day. The Kisan Sabha aims to draw the Commission’s attention to the need for compensation for the state’s environmental and other services.
He pointed out that Himachal Pradesh has sacrificed 1 lakh hectares of agricultural land for hydroelectric projects like Bhakra and Pong Dam, which benefit the plains through electricity and irrigation. However, the displaced residents of Himachal are still awaiting proper rehabilitation.
Additionally, Dr. Tanwar noted that the implementation of the Forest Protection Act and the new Forest Policy has placed 67% of the state’s barren land under central control, resulting in an annual revenue loss of Rs 1,000 crore for Himachal Pradesh.
Himachal Pradesh is critical in mitigating climate change and global warming by preserving forests that store an estimated 7,204 metric tonnes of carbon. Despite this contribution, the state receives no compensation for its eco-services.
Dr. Tanwar emphasized that Himachal Pradesh serves as the largest and most crucial watershed area for the plains, highlighting the importance of water conservation efforts facilitated by forest preservation.
He urged the Finance Commission and the central government to acknowledge Himachal Pradesh’s unique challenges and contributions. Viewing Himachal merely as a small state overlooks its substantial environmental and developmental efforts.
The memorandum calls for additional grants and financial provisions to support environmental protection, promotion, and ecological balance initiatives. Furthermore, Dr. Tanwar advocated for the restoration of the old pension scheme, urging the Finance Commission to consider this positively.
Dr. Tanwar concluded by emphasizing that Himachal Pradesh’s financial and ecological contributions deserve recognition and support. The Kisan Sabha’s submission to the 16th Finance Commission is a compelling call for justice and acknowledgment of Himachal Pradesh’s pivotal role in national and global environmental sustainability.
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