Fri Jan 16 14:04:07 UTC 2026: # Himachal Pradesh Boosts Pastoralist Community with PEHEL Project

The Story

The Himachal Pradesh government, led by Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu, has approved the ‘Sustainable Small Ruminant and Empowered Himalayan Shepherds under Pastoralists Employment in Himalayan Ecosystems for Livelihoods’ (PEHEL) project. The project aims to secure livelihoods, strengthen the rural economy, preserve ecological balance in high-altitude regions, modernise traditional pastoral systems and conserve indigenous small ruminant breeds within the state.

The initiative will integrate modern technologies like digital livestock registration, structured cross-breeding, genetic improvement programs, artificial insemination, and mobile veterinary services. Special focus will be given to preserving indigenous breeds such as Gaddi sheep and goats, Rampur Bushari sheep, and Chegu goats. The policy will also include financial incentives, insurance coverage, and social security measures, particularly for pastoralists safeguarding sensitive border areas.

Key Points

  • Project Name: ‘Sustainable Small Ruminant and Empowered Himalayan Shepherds under Pastoralists Employment in Himalayan Ecosystems for Livelihoods’ (PEHEL).
  • Objective: Secure livelihoods, strengthen the rural economy, preserve ecological balance in high-altitude regions, modernise traditional pastoral systems and conserve indigenous small ruminant breeds.
  • Implementation: Integrating modern technologies like digital livestock registration, structured cross-breeding, genetic improvement programs, artificial insemination, and mobile veterinary services.
  • Focus: Preservation and strengthening of indigenous breeds like Gaddi sheep and goats, Rampur Bushari sheep, and Chegu goats.
  • Support: Financial incentives, insurance coverage, and social security measures for pastoralists, especially those safeguarding border areas.
  • Target Population: Around 6.4 lakh sheep in the state.

Key Takeaways

  • The Himachal Pradesh government recognizes the importance of its pastoralist community and their role in the rural economy and ecological balance.
  • The PEHEL project demonstrates a commitment to both modernizing traditional practices and preserving indigenous breeds.
  • Financial incentives and social security measures highlight a focus on supporting the livelihoods of pastoralists, especially those in sensitive border areas.
  • The project aims for a sustainable, resilient, and remunerative small ruminant sector in Himachal Pradesh.

Impact Analysis

The PEHEL project has the potential to significantly impact the pastoralist community in Himachal Pradesh. By modernizing practices and providing financial support, it can improve livelihoods and contribute to the rural economy. The focus on preserving indigenous breeds will help maintain biodiversity and ecological balance. The long-term sustainability of this project will depend on effective implementation and monitoring.

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