A video conference meeting headed by Deputy Commissioner Anupam Kashyap was held in Shimla district. The meeting focused on the demarcation of forest land and included all Sub-Divisional Magistrates (SDMs) and Divisional Forest Officers (DFOs).
During the meeting, the Deputy Commissioner directed all DFOs to submit a current status report on forest land within the week. The discussion also covered various issues related to Supreme Court orders.
As per these orders, in case WP 1164/2023, the Supreme Court instructed states and union territories to take possession of forest land. It also directed that land allotted for non-forest purposes and currently with the Revenue Department be handed over to the Forest Department. Both departments are working to implement this order in the district.
The meeting held detailed discussions on the challenges faced in carrying out the Supreme Court orders. One major challenge identified was the shortage of staff. To address this, SDMs were told to create separate jurisdictions to speed up implementation of the orders.
Additional District Magistrate (Law and Order) Pankaj Sharma, District Revenue Officer Sanjeet Sharma, along with all SDMs and DFOs, were present at the meeting.
Meanwhile, Shimla is hosting a five-day traditional food festival called “Himachal ka Swaad – Swasthya ka Saath.” The festival is aimed at promoting the state’s authentic local delicacies. It was inaugurated on Friday by Rural Development and Panchayati Raj Minister Anirudh Singh, who said the event would attract tourists and also empower rural women entrepreneurs.
The festival showcases a range of Himachali dishes prepared by women from various villages through self-help groups (SHGs). The initiative is being seen as a way to revive local economic activity, especially after the recent natural disasters that hit the hill state.
Also Read: Himachal panchayat polls likely in December: Minister
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