775 villages excluded from wildlife sanctuary areas

Our Correspondent

Chamba, August 16

Under the rationalisation policy of the Centre, 775 villages in the state have been excluded from wildlife sanctuary areas, restoring traditional rights of residents in such villages.

It will allow them to carry out development activities like new construction with more freedom.

These villages include 318 villages falling under the ambit of five wildlife sanctuaries of Chamba district.

Forest Minister Thakur Singh Bharmouri stated this while presiding over a district-level Independence Day function here today.

Bharmouri said the exclusion of these villages would enable the inhabitants to avail the benefit of their traditional rights. The move would also result in lifting of restrictions on construction activities, he added.

Bharmouri said the state government had also reinstated timber distribution rights of the people of the state.

Earlier, the minister unfurled the National Flag and took salute at an impressive marchpast comprising contingents of the police, Home Guards, NCC, NSS, scouts and guides.

He gave away ‘Veer Nari’ award to Tripta, wife of martyr Ashok Kumar from Kakira village in Chamba district. He also gave away prizes to the contingents, cadets, schoolchildren and officials with outstanding performances.

BJP MLA from Chamba BK Chauhan, state Congress Committee secretary Pawan Nayyar and Deputy Commissioner Sudesh Mokhta were also present on the occasion, besides ex-servicemen and other dignitaries.