Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu has expressed optimism about the potential benefits of the biochar project in Himachal Pradesh, stating that it will generate jobs, promote sustainable forest management, and help the state earn carbon credits. This project is expected to contribute significantly to both environmental conservation and economic development. A tripartite agreement was signed in August last year between Dr Y S Parmar University of Horticulture and Forestry, the forest department, and ProClime Services Private Limited to establish two biochar plants in the state.
The programme aims to produce biochar using biomass derived from pine needles, lantana, bamboo, and other tree and plant-based biomass resources. Biomass is being purchased at a rate of Rs 2.50 per kg, with performance-based incentives for maintaining quality. The project is expected to generate around 28,800 carbon credits over its ten-year operational period, giving a boost to Himachal Pradesh’s green initiatives.
The HIM Evergreen Integrated Climate-Smart Agriculture and Agro-forestry Programme will integrate trees into farming systems, strengthen resilience, and create long-term economic opportunities for farming communities. This programme will cover 50,000 hectares of agricultural landscapes across the state, bringing 13.5 million tonnes of carbon dioxide emissions under management. It will also improve soil health, enhance biodiversity, increase farm resilience, and generate measurable climate outcomes through carbon sequestration.
The programme will utilise GIS, remote sensing, and digital data collection systems aligned with international carbon market standards.
