State to formulate policy for Apple growers after consultation: CM Sukhu assures support
Shimla, July 29,
In a major outreach to protesting apple growers, Chief Minister Thakur Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu on Monday assured that the state government is committed to protecting the interests of farmers and will soon formulate a comprehensive policy to address the ongoing issues related to eviction and tree cutting on forest land.
A delegation of over 4,000 apple growers, led by CPI(M) leaders Rakesh Singha, Sanjay Chauhan, Dr. Kuldeep Singh Tanwar, and Dr. Onkar Shad, cordoned the State Secretariat and submitted a memorandum to the Chief Minister, demanding relief and regularisation for small orchardists affected by amendments in the Forest Conservation Act.
During a detailed meeting with the delegation, the Chief Minister assured a sympathetic consideration of all demands. He confirmed that the state government has already approached the Supreme Court to safeguard the rights of apple growers and that no apple tree will be allowed to be cut following the court’s directions. The Forest Department has also been instructed to probe alleged felling in Karsog and Kullu valleys.
The Chief Minister said a policy will be framed after consultations with the Union Environment Ministry to address issues concerning forest land and small holdings. He emphasized the need for central relaxation of forest norms, especially since 68% of the state’s land is under forest cover.
The state has also urged the Centre to allow the allotment of one to five bighas of land to landless disaster-affected families. BJP MPs have been requested to raise the issue effectively at the national level.
Revenue Minister Jagat Singh Negi reiterated the government’s commitment, suggesting relief under the Forest Rights Act, 2006, similar to the rehabilitation of Pong Dam displaced families.
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