Himachal Pradesh government working to get as many as 102 additional Gram Panchayats of the State under the ambit of Mid Himalayan Watershed Development Project in second phase by spending Rs. 235.75 crore.
A Spokesman of the State Government said here today that the second phase of the project would be implemented for three years till March, 2016. The first phase of this project started in October, 2005 and was completed on 31 March, 2013. As many as 602 Gram Panchayats were covered during the first phase by spending Rs. 365 crore. With inclusion of 102 additional panchayats, around 13 lakh people of 704 panchayats would be benefited under the project.
He said that the emphasis had been given to revive the natural resources under this project with a view to increase production capacity which would help in strengthening rural economy. Special attention was being given for uplift of the people of tribal areas and 4530 flock management training camps had been organized under tribal work plan in the State.
Spokesman claimed that necessary steps had been taken for effective implementation of the project and maintaining ecological balance. He directed for minimum use of cement and concrete in watershed activities and said that plantation drive would be carried on mass level.
