MANDI: The Himachal Pradesh government has launched a pioneering initiative called the Van Mitrs Scheme, aimed at involving local youth in forest protection and sustainable management of natural resources.
The scheme not only provides employment opportunities close to home for young individuals but also encourages active community participation in environmental conservation.
Under this initiative, one Van Mitra (forest friend) is being appointed in each of the 2,061 designated forest areas across the state. These individuals work as a bridge between the local community and the Forest Department, ensuring grassroots-level involvement in forest security, development and protection activities.
Mandi’s young women lead the charge
In the Mandi forest circle, 309 Van Mitras have been engaged so far. As many as 188 of them are young women aged between 18 and 25 years, signalling a powerful stride toward women empowerment in the traditionally male-dominated field of forest management.
The strong participation of women as Van Mitras is being hailed as a progressive outcome of the state’s inclusive policies. Their involvement is expected to significantly enhance public awareness, community engagement and effective forest protection.
Voices from the field
Akanksha Thakur, a trainee Van Mitra from Shankar Dehra in Karsog, shared her enthusiasm: “I have always been drawn to the challenges. When I heard about the Van Mitra Scheme, I knew I had to be part of it. The training has empowered me with skills in nursery management, afforestation and fire safety. It’s a proud moment to contribute to both nature and my community.”
Another trainee, Priyanka, expressed her commitment to the cause: “I am determined to fulfil my duties with sincerity. I’m especially eager to support fire prevention and other essential forest management tasks.”
Gulshan Premi, a male trainee from Pangna Range, highlighted the responsibility that comes with the role: “Forest fires often damage invaluable forest wealth during the dry season. We, the youth, are ready to protect this natural heritage as Van Mitras.”
Scheme’s goals and broader impact
The Van Mitra Scheme is strategically designed to protect forest cover, stabilise slopes in hilly terrain, reduce soil erosion and surface runoff and implement sustainable forestry practices. By engaging local communities, the scheme also aligns with the objectives of India’s National Forest Policy.
Van Mitras are involved year-round in core forestry tasks, including fire prevention, afforestation, resin tapping, nursery development and conservation operations. Their placement is localised to ensure familiarity with the terrain and community, enhancing their effectiveness.
Community collaboration
The scheme also envisions the participation of panchayati raj institutions, women and youth clubs, ex-servicemen groups, forest development committees, educational institutions and non-government organisations (NGOs).
Van Mitras work in tandem with these grassroots bodies to promote forestry awareness, resolve human-wildlife conflict and encourage sustainable forest management practices.
Munish Sood
