Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu launched the ‘Single-Use Plastic Challan Mobile App’ on World Environment Day, allowing officials to issue paperless and instant challans for illegal use of plastic, from Shimla on Thursday.
Presiding over a state-level function in Shimla, the CM announced the distribution of six lakh stainless steel water bottles to school students in the state as an initiative to curb the use of plastic bottles.
Speaking on the occasion, he said, ” The state government is giving top priority to environmental protection, and concrete measures are being taken to control plastic pollution, besides making regulations related to plastic use more stringent and creating awareness.”
He said , “ The state government has set a target to make Himachal Pradesh a green energy state by 31st March 2026, and several steps are being implemented; new schemes have been started to increase green cover in the state, and steps were being taken to promote solar energy projects, green corridors, electric vehicles, and green energy,” he added .
On the occasion, the CM gave away Environmental Leadership Awards to eight individuals and institutions for their outstanding contributions in the field of environmental conservation. The first and second prizes carried a cash award of Rs. 50,000 each, while the third prize carried Rs. 25,000.
Rajkiya Kanya Mahavidyalaya (RKMV), Shimla, was awarded the first prize in the academic institution category. Other first prize winners include Nature Park Bakhli and JICA-supported projects in Nachan, Pidilite Industries Ltd., Baddi Centre for Science Learning and Creativity under HIMCOSTE and the Block Development Office, Chopal.
The second prize was awarded to the Himalayan Research Group, Shimla; PM Shri Govt. Model Sr. Sec. School, Chauntra, Mandi; and Luminous Power Technologies Pvt. Ltd.
Chief Secretary Prabodh Saxena shared detailed insights on key environmental initiatives taking place in the state. He said the Deposit Refund Scheme will prove effective in regulating plastic producers and polluters. He also highlighted subjects such as climate adaptation plans, climate literacy, and expanding green cover.
