Following Himachal’s initiative to share chilgoza seeds and saplings with Bhutan, forest officials from the neighbouring nation are studying conservation and production practices in Kinnaur.
Himachal Pradesh’s successful conservation and cultivation model of the prized chilgoza pine has attracted international attention, with an eight-member delegation of forest officials from Bhutan arriving in the state to study the species and its management practices.
The visit comes months after Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu facilitated the dispatch of 500 chilgoza saplings and five kilograms of chilgoza seeds to Bhutan in January this year. The initiative has now paved the way for a knowledge-sharing partnership between the two Himalayan regions.
The Bhutanese delegation has travelled to Kinnaur district, the primary producer of chilgoza in Himachal Pradesh, where members will undertake a detailed study of the nut’s conservation, management, cultivation, and production systems. The team is also expected to interact with local communities and officials involved in protecting and promoting the valuable forest resource.
Before proceeding to Kinnaur, the delegation met Principal Chief Conservator of Forests Dr. Sanjay Sood, who briefed the officials on Himachal Pradesh’s forest conservation policies, sustainable management practices, and ongoing efforts to preserve biodiversity and forest wealth.
During the interaction, extensive discussions were held on Kinnaur’s unique chilgoza conservation and production model, which has become a significant contributor to the district’s rural economy. Chilgoza, often referred to as one of the most valuable forest produce of the Himalayan region, provides livelihood support to numerous families and plays an important role in local economic development.
Apart from studying chilgoza cultivation, the Bhutanese officials have expressed keen interest in biodiversity conservation, sustainable forest management, ecological preservation, and the responsible utilisation of natural resources.
Forest Department officials said the delegation’s visit reflects growing recognition of Himachal Pradesh’s expertise in managing fragile mountain ecosystems and conserving high-value forest species. The exchange is expected to strengthen cooperation between Himachal Pradesh and Bhutan in the areas of forestry, biodiversity conservation, and sustainable environmental practices.
Officials believe the study tour could open new avenues for collaborative research and knowledge-sharing, helping both regions protect their ecological heritage while promoting sustainable livelihoods for local communities.
