Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu has announced plans to develop a policy aimed at finding alternatives to plastic within a year. During a state-level function held on World Environment Day, Sukhu expressed his intention to encourage industries to seek substitutes for plastic and enforce a complete ban on its use in the state.
Sukhu highlighted the importance of utilizing plastic waste in road construction and advocated for the inclusion of culture and environment-oriented courses in the educational curriculum to promote environmental awareness among children. He emphasized that his commitment to creating a greener future for Himachal Pradesh was evident in the state's first green budget, which prioritized addressing environmental concerns.
The government has allocated funds for renewable energy initiatives and is focusing on combating single-use plastic. In line with these efforts, the government's vehicles will gradually be replaced with electric vehicles over the next three years. Himachal Pradesh is also taking the lead in establishing green corridors, making it the first state in the country to do so. Infrastructure development is currently underway to support this initiative.
Additionally, the government is concentrating on the production of green hydrogen. Sukhu set a target to transform Himachal Pradesh into a 'Green Energy State' by March 31, 2026. In recognition of his commitment to environmental awareness, Sukhu was presented with a jacket made from recycled plastic waste at the event.
As part of the World Environment Day celebrations, an exhibition featuring various self-help groups and organizations was inaugurated by the chief minister. United Nations Goodwill Ambassador Dia Mirza, speaking at the event, highlighted the adverse effects of plastic waste and its presence in the human bloodstream through the consumption of food.
Dia Mirza urged the government and industries to work together with a collective responsibility to address the issue of plastic pollution. Lalit Jain, Director of Environment, Science, Technology, and Climate Change, mentioned that this year's World Environment Day is centered around the theme 'Beat Plastic Pollution' to raise awareness about the harmful effects of plastic pollution.
During the event, the chief minister distributed awards for environmental preservation. Sukhu also flagged off an awareness rally from his official residence, Oakover. Cyclists and students from various schools, including Government Senior Secondary School, Portmore, Government Senior Secondary School, Sanjauli, and Shimla Public School, as well as volunteers from the Shimla Municipal Corporation, participated in the rally.
Highlighting the state government's efforts in environmental preservation, Sukhu emphasized that Himachal Pradesh was the first state in the country to ban single-use plastic. Known as Devbhoomi, or "Land of the Gods," Himachal Pradesh aims to instill a sense of environmental consciousness among its youth through awareness campaigns and initiatives.
