Himachal Pradesh Launches Groundbreaking Biochar Initiative

The state of Himachal Pradesh is set to launch the country’s first state-supported biochar programme, with a plant to be established in Neri, Hamirpur district, within the next six months. This initiative aims to convert various biomass, including pine needles, lantana, bamboo, and other tree-based materials, into biochar, a product that has numerous applications in agriculture, metallurgy, and other industries.

The project, which has a projected operational period of ten years, is expected to generate approximately 28,800 carbon credits, significantly contributing to the state’s environmental efforts. A memorandum of agreement (MoA) was signed on October 4, 2023 in the presence of Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu. The agreement involves three parties: the Dr Y S Parmar University of Horticulture and Forestry at Nauni, the Himachal Pradesh state department, and ProClime Services Private Limited, based in Chennai.

“This project is a step towards environmental conservation through intelligently mitigating forest fires, while also enhancing livelihood opportunities and awareness among communities,” stated Chief Minister Sukhu. He emphasized the importance of implementing the MoA within six months to benefit regions such as Kangra, Mandi, Hamirpur, Chamba, Bilaspur, and Solan, particularly those abundant in pine forests.

The programme aims to create job opportunities while enabling the state to secure valuable carbon credits. The executing company will collaborate with the forest department to involve local communities in the sustainable collection of biomass. Participants will receive compensation of Rs 2.50 per kilogram of biomass collected, along with performance-based incentives for maintaining both quality and quantity.

Moreover, the initiative is projected to generate nearly 50,000 person-days of income annually through biomass collection, as well as direct employment within the plant operations. Skill development workshops will be organized in partnership with the university, focusing on safe collection practices, applications of biochar in agriculture, and climate change mitigation strategies.

This pioneering programme positions Himachal Pradesh at the forefront of green initiatives, combining environmental sustainability with economic development. As the project unfolds, it promises to enhance the livelihoods of local communities while contributing to the global fight against climate change.