Himachal Pradesh government will launch a scheme to buy back non-recyclable polythene on fixed price.

Announcing this at the State Environment Leadership Awards 2018-19 prize distribution function organised here on World Environment Day, Chief Minister Jai Ram Thakur appreciated the support given by people of the state in ensuring effective ban on plastic.

He urged the people to supplement the efforts of the government in environment protection and maintaining cleanliness. On the occasion, he launched new bags by the department of Environmental, Science and technology.

The function was jointly organised by the department of Environment, Science and Technology, HP Council for Science, Technology and Environment (HIMCOSTE), HP State Pollution Control Board and Education Department.

The CM flagged off awareness rallies, in which around 600 students from 30 schools of the town participated. He also unveiled the book “compilation of best practices on environmental Excellence” besides other awareness material.

The CM gave away prizes to the winners of different categories for remarkable contribution by the institutions and individuals in promotion of environment protection and conservation and sustainable development in the state.

The awards were in the form of citation, memento along-with cash prize of Rs 50,000 as 1st prize and Rs 25,000 as 2nd prize.

While congratulating everyone on World Environment Day and appreciating the contribution of various stakeholders in the conservation of environment, the CM said that India is a country of saints and sages who gained wisdom amidst clean and safe environment.

He said that we have achieved remarkable development over the years, but it has come at the cost of environment degradation. There are many challenges in the state today and we have to contemplate on priority to avoid further harm to the nature.

The CM launched WaPIS (Water Purification Invigorative Scheme) under which, 38 types of plant species have been identified to treat waste water of various river streams. Initially, this project will be implemented in and around Sukhna Nullah (Parwanoo), Markanda River (Kala Amb) and Sirsa River (Baddi).

Additional Chief Secretary, Environment, Science and Technology and Chairman HP State Pollution Control Board RD Dhiman said that global warming has become a major concern for the entire world. Climate change has posed challenges for many sectors like agriculture, industries, etc.

He said the environment department is working extensively with all stakeholders to curb pollution and maintain a healthy environment in the state.

The event also included presentations on best practices being implemented by various stakeholders in different fields of environment protection in the State.

The State Pollution Control Board organised an exhibition and Technology Demonstration on Air, Water Pollution and Waste Management. The aim of exhibition was to create public awareness on the issues pertaining to growing air and water pollution and waste management across the State.