Centre must compensate hill states for eco protection: Dhumal

Shimla, Oct 15 (UNI) Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Prem Kumar Dhumal said that hill states should be compensated suitably by the centre for their efforts and contribution towards ecological protection.

''The Chief Minister said the Centre should adopt different parameters for hill states while sanctioning various projects or laying down norms as requirements of hill states are different from other states, the Chief Minister said while interacting with the Members of Administrative Reforms Commission in a meeting held here today.

''There is a complete ban on green felling in Himachal Pradesh and in many cases this is impeding developmental process as clearance for roads for undertaking developmental works is not accorded speedily,'' he said.

Mr Dhumal said that the benefits of carbon credits should be percolated down to the states also in a fair manner and added that contribution of hill states is maximum in earning the credits.

The Centre should adopt a practical attitude towards the States like Himachal Pradesh where carrying out of developmental activities involved more expenditure as compared to other areas.

UNI XC PS LS KN2052