Strengthening India-Bhutan Ties Through Green Initiatives

In a significant gesture to strengthen ties between India and Bhutan, Chief Minister Thakur Sukhu has initiated the dispatch of chilgoza saplings to Bhutan. This initiative aims to enhance the friendly relations between the two nations while promoting environmental conservation. The Himachal Pradesh government is also set to involve local women's groups in related activities, providing financial support for chilgoza cultivation. With plans for extensive tree planting and forest conservation efforts, this collaboration highlights the commitment of both nations to environmental sustainability and mutual growth. Read on to discover more about this green initiative and its implications for India-Bhutan relations.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jan 12, 2026, 15:59 IST

Enhancing Friendship with Bhutan

In a move to bolster the longstanding friendly relations between India and Bhutan, Chief Minister Thakur Sukhu flagged off a vehicle carrying chilgoza (pine nut) saplings to Bhutan from the state secretariat on Monday. During this event, the Chief Minister emphasized the warm and cordial ties shared by both nations, stating that this green initiative would further strengthen the bonds of friendship.

He noted the similarities in the Himalayan natural heritage of Himachal Pradesh and Bhutan. The Himachal Pradesh Forest Department is set to provide Bhutan with chilgoza seeds valued at ₹5 lakh. Additionally, Bhutanese forest officials will receive training on cultivating chilgoza plants, with a team from Bhutan scheduled to visit Himachal Pradesh soon.

Local Involvement and Financial Support

The state government plans to involve local women's groups in chilgoza-related activities and provide them with financial assistance. Efforts to expand the cultivation and development of chilgoza will be intensified. The Chief Minister mentioned that previously, Bhutan had received 50 kilograms of chilgoza seeds.

Chilgoza is recognized as a unique and highly valuable species in the western Himalayas, contributing significantly to environmental conservation, biodiversity, and local livelihoods.

Government Initiatives for Forest Conservation

The Chief Minister stated that the current state government is committed to enhancing forest conservation and expanding forest areas. Various measures are being implemented to achieve these goals. As a result of these efforts, the state's forest area has increased by approximately 55 square kilometers.

This year, under various schemes and projects, around 9,000 hectares of forest land are being planted with trees, with 60 percent of these being fruit-bearing plants.

Ongoing Green Cover Initiatives

To increase green cover, the Chief Minister highlighted the ongoing tree planting on 600 hectares of barren hills as part of the forest expansion plan. Since 2019, 2,019 forest friends have been appointed to assist in forest protection and management.

Plans such as the Rajiv Gandhi Forest Conservation Scheme and the Green Adoption Scheme are also being implemented to further these objectives.

Notable Attendees

During this occasion, several dignitaries were present, including Revenue Minister Jagat Singh Negi, Deputy Chief Whip Keval Singh Pathania, and other senior officials from the Himachal Pradesh Forest Corporation.