Speaker: Amend FCA, FRA for inclusive development

Speaker of the Himachal Pradesh Assembly Kuldeep Singh Pathania on Wednesday stress on the need to amend the Forest Conservation Act (FCA) and the Forest Rights Act (FRA) to ensure sustainable and inclusive development in the state. Addressing a public gathering at Duragai-Ghatta village near Chowari in the Bhattiyat Assembly constituency, Pathania highlighted the importance of raising these issues in the Assembly to expedite the implementation of development projects and prioritise land allocation for disaster-affected people.

The Speaker further called for efforts to increase the proportionate revenue share the state receives from central corporations benefiting from Himachal Pradesh’s natural resources.

Speaking at the foundation stone-laying ceremony of the Burja link road, a project estimated to cost ₹1 crore, Pathania reiterated the challenges posed by prolonged delays in obtaining environmental clearances for developmental projects under the FCA.

Outlining the progress made in the Bhattiyat constituency, Pathania noted that 21 out of 32 proposed link road construction projects initiated in the past two years are nearing completion. He also assured residents that 11 additional roads are planned under the gram panchayats of Raipur, Sadal and Jandrogh with four projects already cleared under the FRA. Pathania further committed to expediting the construction of the new building for the Sadal Primary Health Centre.

During the event, Pathania actively engaged with the public, addressing their grievances and resolving many issues on the spot.

The Speaker reaffirmed his commitment to the holistic development of the Bhattiyat constituency, emphasising that government initiatives aim to enhance human capital and contribute significantly to the economic and social progress of the region.