Sukhu launches country's first state-supported biochar programme

Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu on Wednesday announced that India’s first state-supported biochar programme will start in the state. A biochar plant will be set up at Neri in Hamirpur district within six months.

A tripartite Memorandum of Agreement (MoA) was signed in Shimla at Oak Over in the presence of the Chief Minister. The agreement was signed between Dr Y S Parmar University of Horticulture and Forestry, Nauni, the Himachal Pradesh Forest Department, and ProClime Services Pvt Ltd, Chennai.

Biochar is produced through microwave-assisted pyrolysis technology in a short time. It is considered an eco-friendly solution for sustainable waste management. It has multiple uses, including in healthcare, agriculture, soil improvement, carbon capture, wastewater treatment, and even as a possible replacement for coal. Experts say it can play a role in achieving net-zero emissions and addressing global warming challenges.

Speaking at the signing, CM Sukhu said “This project is a step towards environmental conservation through intelligent mitigation of forest fires, while also enhancing livelihood opportunities and awareness among communities. The collaboration aims to produce biochar by utilising biomass such as pine needles, lantana, bamboo and other tree-based material.”

"The initiative will not only create employment opportunities but also help the state to secure carbon credits. ProClime, through the Forest Department, will engage local communities in sustainable biomass collection and the participants will be paid Rs 2.50 per kg of biomass collected, with performance-based incentives for maintaining quality and quantity," he said.

"The programme is expected to generate nearly 50,000 person-days of income annually through biomass collection, along with direct employment in plant operations. Skill development programmes will also be organised in partnership with the university on safe collection practices, biochar applications in agriculture and climate change mitigation," Sukhu said.

Over 10 years, the project is expected to generate around 28,800 carbon credits, giving a boost to the state’s green economy. Sukhu said the agreement provided a strong framework to fight forest fires, remove invasive species like lantana, and use pine needles and other residues sustainably for biochar production.

"The initiative will enhance soil health, promote carbon sequestration, generate and monetise carbon credits under international standards, and create local livelihood opportunities through biomass collection and skill development. ProClime Services Pvt Ltd will invest up to one million US dollars in the phased implementation of the project," he said.

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