HP CM asks Himalayan states to formulate strategy for devp

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All Himalayan states should come together to raise issues of common interest for development of agriculture, tourism and power generation.

JAI RAM THAKUR , chief minister, Himachal Pradesh

Shimla:himachal Pradesh chief minister Jai Ram Thakur on Saturday asked Himalayan states to come together and formulate a joint strategy for development of agriculture, tourism and power generation.

“All Himalayan states should come together to raise issues of common interest,” said Thakur as he addressed conclave of Himalayan states organised in Shimla. “Prime Minister Narendra Modi was aware of developmental needs of Himalayan states and several new schemes aimed at development of hilly areas were launched by the Centre,” Thakur added.

Jai Ram Thakur said hydro power sector was vital for the development and growth of Himalayan states. “The effects of climate change on precipitation pattern and hydrological regime were most critical to hydro power generation, especially in the Himalayan region.”

Adding that about 75 % of the total hydro-power development potential in the country was concentrated in north-eastern and northern regions, he said only 34 % of the total potential in northern and 2% in the northeastern region was realised till date.

“Once Himachal Pradesh was popular as the power state of the country, but gradually its pace slowed,” he said.

He also said that all Himalayan states should collectively urge the Centre to place the hydroelectricity project under the renewable energy category.

Union agriculture minister Radha Mohan Singh said the Himalayan states have great potential by adopting zero budget natural farming for value adding to their produce.

Union Minister of State for Home Kiren Rijiju said Himalayan states have their own cultural, social and religious identity, which should be conserved at any cost. Rijiju said he would support the resolution adopted in the conclave and added that due to its natural beauty the Himalayan States had immense tourism potential which should be harnessed.