29-Jul-2019: Himalayan states want green bonus, separate ministry for issues

Recognising their role in security at international borders and contribution to environment conservation, the Himalayan states demanded the Centre for a green bonus and creation of a separate ministry to deal with problems of the region. Representatives of 10 of the 11 Himalayan states made the demand to Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman in the one-day conclave of Himalayan states held in Mussoorie.

Apart from Assam, chief ministers, ministers, bureaucrats and other experts from 10 other Himalayan states participated in the conclave and presented a common agenda before the Finance Minister. Jammu and Kashmir, Uttarakhand, Himachal Pradesh, Sikkim, Arunachal Pradesh, Meghalaya, Nagaland, Tripura, Mizoram and Manipur — took part in the conclave.

Representatives of all the states gave a common agenda to Union Finance Minister. For their environment service, Himalayan states should get a green bonus. The states will make effective contribution in water conservation mission of the Prime Minister,” said Uttarakhand Chief Minister Trivendra Singh Rawat.

The states expressed their expectations of financial assistance from the Centre in programmes of conservation and rejuvenation of rivers and other Centre sponsored schemes. States also demanded that their borders areas be developed on a priority basis to prevent migration, considering the issue of security.

The Himalayan states also passed a ‘Mussoorie Resolution’ pledging to make endeavours to protect and conserve the rich Himalayan heritage and ethos and nurture the wealth of biodiversity.