Revenue generation with special reference to hydro potential, tourism, Flora and Fauna. in Himachal Pradesh
Changing fiscal Environment and the ever expanding need for government expenditure have led the Government of Himachal Pradesh to explore the possibilities of augmenting its revenues.
Hydro energy potential in himachal Pradesh
The beautiful valleys, gleaming Glaciers, gigantic pines, gushing rivers and exquisite flora and fauna compose the symphony that is Himachal Pradesh. Situated in the north western lap of the Himalayas, it is one of the most beautiful and well developed states of India. Many important rivers of the Indian subcontinent either originate or pass through here. These rivers are the Beas, Chenab, the Ravi, the Satluj and the Yamuna. In the last 3-4 decades water from these rivers has increasingly been seen as a precious resource for generating electricity. The identified power potential of these rivers is estimated to be 20415 MW, which is about 14 percent of the total Hydro Power potential of the country.’ In this chapter we will see how Himachal, after attaining statehood, strived to harness this hydro potential to become a ‘Power State’. The chapter is divided into two sections. The first section discusses the five river systems of Himachal and their hydro-power potential. It also discusses the details of major hydro-projects in the Beas Basin. The second section analyses how Himachal has attempted to harness hydro-power to acquire the status of a ‘Power State.
Tourism in himachal Pradesh
Himachal Pradesh is the ultimate travel destination of India for tourists, artists, pilgrims and adventures since time immemorial. The natural scenic beauty, architecture, fair and festivals, salubrious Climate and environment, snow-capped peaks, lakes, rivers, glaciers, adventure Sports, temples of the region have emerged as the main tourist attractions in this region. Those who are hungry for the scenic beauty, this region offers its cultural richness and antiquity with amusement and environmental variety. The booming tourism Industry in Himachal Pradesh is an engine to economic Growth in rural areas of the state. Tourism planners need to moderate the level of risk at the destination through risk avoidance or enhancement policies in an attempt to satisfy tourist’s motivations. Tourism has multiplier effect on the economy of Himachal Pradesh. The tourism industry of Himachal Pradesh is making substantial contribution to generation of EMPLOYMENT and earning Foreign Exchange and the government has accorded due priority to ensure its growth over the years. The government of Himachal Pradesh have initiated various developmental plans for the development of Infrastructure-2/”>INFRASTRUCTURE like railways, air transport, road transport and Communication networks in order to promote the tourism in the main tourist destinations.
Tourism is playing a very important role in the socioeconomic development of the state of Himachal Pradesh. As a smokeless industry it is contributing in improving the economic condition of the state on one side and on the other it is resulting into earning foreign exchange. Considering the immense potential of tourism in the state, the government needs to develop efficient strategies to exploit new unexploited areas in such a manner where the local community is involved and benefit accrue to the people of the area. The public involvement in tourism related developmental activities is necessary so that the local community and the villagers realized the importance and benefits from tourism related activities. Therefore, the government need to frame policies which encourage public-private participation in the creation of quality tourism infrastructure to facilitate tourists throughout the state.
Although the majority of the respondents were found satisfied with the infrastructure and other facilities/ Services available in the different tourist centers in the state, yet keeping in view the topography of the region the transportation and accommodation plays a very important role in the development of the tourism. Himachal Pradesh is not capable of attracting high-end tourists because of the fact that the state has only three helipads at Shimla, Kullu and Dharmshala, where the flights are very erratic. Moreover, the state has very poor air and rail connectivity. Hence, the government need to arrange the Heli-taxi services on more frequent basis for those tourists who do not prefer to spend long hours on hard road journey. Visitors face difficulty in visiting temples and other religious places because of inadequate road Network. Government should build link roads to all such places so that every tourist can easily visit these places.
Adequate accommodation and catering management need to be strengthened in various tourist destinations. More tourism reception centers need to be identified and organized with the objectives to cater the budget and high class tourists travelling by road to visit different locations. These tourism reception centers should provide beverages, food items and snacks at the restaurants at reasonable prices to the tourists. Hence, the state of Himachal Pradesh has vast potential for the tourism throughout the region but there is a need for an effective strategy towards holistic development of tourism in thoroughly integrated way.
Flora and fauna
The green slopes of the hilly ranges are covered with fir, rhododendron, pine and the Himalayan oak. Tibet road is famous for its apple orchards. Animals like Tibetan antelope; the Kiang (Tibetan wild ass); the Himalayan ibex; black and brown bears; horn and musk deer are found here. The State animal of Himachal Pradesh is musk deer. Lush coniferous forests, verdant meadows, strewn with exotic flora, snowy peaks and pristine glaciers make it an ideal Himalayan retreat.
Along with this diversity, comes a vast range of flora and fauna. The outer fringe of Himachal is formed by the Siwalik Hills which are characterized by shallow dips and low dense scrub. The extravagance of the Indian sun mellows as the hills climb higher and tropical vegetation parts to woods of scented pine – which merge into forests of oak and flowering rhododendron. The mid-ranges have the majestic Himalayan cedars (the almost legendary ‘deodar’), and spruce. Then close to the snowline, come stretches of fir, alder and birch. The chil pine which gives the tasty kernel – the ‘Chilgoza’ and huge elms tiling and horse-chestnuts, make cameo appearances.
Wild flowers, a variety of ferns and Grasses and rare medicinal herbs form the groundcover – while vast meadows just under the sky, are lined by juniper and lichens. Past the snow peaks, the land is largely arid for the monsoon rains – India’s lifeline; that are forced to remain south of this impassable mountain barrier.
Apples account for the mainstray of Himachal’s rural-agrarian economy and annually, thousands of crores worth of this temperate fruit enter the market from the orchards of Himachal Pradesh. Behind this transformation and behind the beauty blossoms across the hills is a remarkable story. The earliest apples to be introduced into India were the English varieties – Captain Lee took to Kullu valley and Alexander Coutts grew them at Hillock’s head, in Mashobra near Shimla. These varieties were never popular and it was the arrival of Samuel Stokes (who later converted to Hinduism-2/”>Hinduism and changed his name to Satyanand) and the American hybrids that accounted for the real transformation.
Himachal offers a new era of nature enjoyment and Learning. It also provides visitors an excellent exposure to the temperate forests. This makes it an ideal area for developing eco-tourism activities like jungle safaris, trekking, rock climbing, forest trails, nature walks, angling (esp. golden mahaseer and brown trout), camping etc.. All these activities are to be conducted in a manner that promotes awareness of the environment and helps maintain the ecological balance.
The eco tourism projects being predominantly situated in forest lands are technically under the Forest Deptt. which has already formulated an Eco Tourism policy in consultation with the Tourism Deptt. under this Ecotourism Societies have been established on CBET (Community Based EcoTourism basis) to cover the Great Himalayan National Park (Kullu), Himalayan Nature Park (Shimla), Renuka Wildlife Sanctuary (Sirmour) and Potter’s Hill Van Vihar (Shimla).
The Government will harness the tourism potential of forests in the state by developing camping sites with basic infrastructure facilities and other public convenience services. A nominal fee shall also be determined by the Government for the use of camping site for the maintenance and for the conservation of these forests. The private parties shall be encouraged for setting up of such camping sites on erwerorment friendly basis. The Government will endeavour to open forest rest houses for the tourists through the Society. These would be run on community based eco tourism tenets or through public private PARTNERSHIP with companies with good track record of working in Eco – tourism.
Wildlife Tourism is an integral part of Eco Tourism . Himachal Pradesh has a varied topography, climate and forest cover and is endowed with a vast variety of flora and fauna. At present there are 32 Sanctuaries, 2 National Parks and 3 Game Reserves. The sanctuaries include Simbalwara (Sirmour), Churdhar, Chail (Solan), Maharana Pratap Sagar (Kangra) Manali (Kullu), Kanwar (Kullu), Kalatop Khajjiar (Chamba) and Daranghati (Shimla). The National Parks are Pin Valley National Park, Spiti and the Great Himalayan National Park, Kullu; the Nature parks are at Kufri (Shimla), Manali (Kullu) and Gopalpur (Kangra). The Tourism Deptt proposes to work actively with the Wild life Wing of the Forest Deptt to further develop and improve wild life parks/zoos, bird watching towers and other public utility services for the facility of the tourists. A reasonable fee shall be determined by the Government for use of such parks/zoos for its maintenance.
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Himachal Pradesh is a state in northern India. It is bordered by the states of Jammu and Kashmir to the north, Punjab to the west, Haryana to the southwest, Uttarakhand to the south, and China to the east. The state has a Population of over 7 million people and a land area of about 55,673 square kilometers. The capital of Himachal Pradesh is Shimla.
Himachal Pradesh is a mountainous state with a diverse landscape. The state is home to the Himalayas, the Pir Panjal Range, and the Dhauladhar Range. The state also has a number of rivers, including the Sutlej River, the Beas River, and the Ravi River.
Himachal Pradesh has a temperate climate. The Average temperature in the state ranges from 10 degrees Celsius in the winter to 30 degrees Celsius in the summer. The state receives an average annual rainfall of about 1,500 millimeters.
Himachal Pradesh is a popular tourist destination. The state is known for its beautiful Mountains, valleys, and forests. It is also home to a number of historical and religious sites. Tourism is a major source of revenue for the State Government.
Himachal Pradesh is also a major producer of hydroelectricity. The state has an installed hydropower capacity of about 11,000 MW. The state is also home to a number of potential sites for hydropower projects, which could add another 10,000 MW of installed capacity.
Himachal Pradesh is a major producer of apples, potatoes, and other fruits and vegetables. agriculture is the main occupation of the people of Himachal Pradesh. Agriculture is a major source of revenue for the state government.
Himachal Pradesh has a number of small and medium-sized industries. The state is known for its production of woolen products, handicrafts, and other items. Industry is a major source of revenue for the state government.
The service sector is the fastest growing sector in Himachal Pradesh. The state is home to a number of educational institutions, hospitals, and other service providers. The service sector is a major source of revenue for the state government.
The state government also generates revenue from a number of other sources, such as taxes, fees, and fines.
Himachal Pradesh is a beautiful and prosperous state. The state has a diverse economy and a strong social fabric. The people of Himachal Pradesh are hardworking and resilient. The state is well-positioned for continued growth and development in the years to come.
Here are some additional details about Himachal Pradesh:
- The state is home to a number of national parks and wildlife sanctuaries, including the Great Himalayan National Park, the Pin Valley National Park, and the Keoladeo National Park.
- Himachal Pradesh is also home to a number of historical and religious sites, including the Shimla Palace, the Jakhoo Temple, and the Naina Devi Temple.
- The state is a popular destination for trekking, mountaineering, and other outdoor activities.
- Himachal Pradesh is also home to a number of universities, including the Himachal Pradesh University, the Panjab University, and the Central University of Himachal Pradesh.
- The state is well-connected by road and rail. The Indira Gandhi International Airport in Delhi is the nearest international airport to Himachal Pradesh.
Hydro potential
What is the hydro potential of Himachal Pradesh?
Himachal Pradesh has a hydro potential of 20,000 MW.What are the benefits of developing hydro power in Himachal Pradesh?
The benefits of developing hydro power in Himachal Pradesh include:- Increased electricity generation
- Reduced dependence on fossil fuels
- Increased employment opportunities
- Reduced carbon emissions
What are the challenges of developing hydro power in Himachal Pradesh?
The challenges of developing hydro power in Himachal Pradesh include:- Environmental concerns
- Land acquisition issues
- Social and economic impacts
Tourism
What are the tourist attractions in Himachal Pradesh?
The tourist attractions in Himachal Pradesh include:- The Great Himalayan National Park
- The Kullu Valley
- The Spiti Valley
- The Shimla Hills
- The Manali Valley
What are the benefits of tourism in Himachal Pradesh?
The benefits of tourism in Himachal Pradesh include:- Increased revenue generation
- Increased employment opportunities
- Improved infrastructure
- Increased cultural exchange
What are the challenges of tourism in Himachal Pradesh?
The challenges of tourism in Himachal Pradesh include:- Environmental Degradation
- Overcrowding
- Loss of traditional culture
Flora and fauna
What is the flora of Himachal Pradesh?
The flora of Himachal Pradesh is diverse and includes a variety of Plants, including:- Deodar trees
- Oak trees
- Pine trees
- Rhododendrons
- Apple trees
What is the fauna of Himachal Pradesh?
The fauna of Himachal Pradesh is also diverse and includes a variety of animals, including:- Snow leopards
- Himalayan tahr
- Musk deer
- Red pandas
- Blue sheep
What are the threats to the flora and fauna of Himachal Pradesh?
The threats to the flora and fauna of Himachal Pradesh include:- Habitat loss
- Poaching
- Climate Change
- Overpopulation
Question 1
Which of the following is not a major source of revenue generation in Himachal Pradesh?
(A) Hydro potential
(B) Tourism
(C) Agriculture
(D) Flora and fauna
Answer
(D)
Explanation
The major sources of revenue generation in Himachal Pradesh are hydro potential, tourism, and agriculture. Flora and fauna are not a major source of revenue generation in Himachal Pradesh.
Question 2
Which of the following is the most important hydro power project in Himachal Pradesh?
(A) Nathpa Jhakri Hydro Power Project
(B) Bhakra Dam
(C) Pong Dam
(D) Indira Gandhi Hydro Power Project
Answer
(A)
Explanation
The Nathpa Jhakri Hydro Power Project is the most important hydro power project in Himachal Pradesh. It is a run-of-the-river scheme with a installed capacity of 1,500 MW. The project was commissioned in 1993.
Question 3
Which of the following is the most popular tourist destination in Himachal Pradesh?
(A) Shimla
(B) Manali
(C) Dharamshala
(D) Kullu
Answer
(A)
Explanation
Shimla is the most popular tourist destination in Himachal Pradesh. It is the capital of Himachal Pradesh and is a popular hill station. Shimla is known for its colonial architecture, its scenic beauty, and its pleasant climate.
Question 4
Which of the following is the main agricultural crop in Himachal Pradesh?
(A) Rice
(B) Wheat
(C) Maize
(D) Apple
Answer
(D)
Explanation
Apple is the main agricultural crop in Himachal Pradesh. The state is known for its apple orchards. Apple is the main Source Of Income for many people in Himachal Pradesh.
Question 5
Which of the following is the state animal of Himachal Pradesh?
(A) Snow leopard
(B) Musk deer
(C) Red panda
(D) Himalayan tahr
Answer
(C)
Explanation
The red panda is the state animal of Himachal Pradesh. It is a small, arboreal mammal that is found in the Himalayas. The red panda is a shy and elusive animal and is rarely seen by humans.
Question 6
Which of the following is the state bird of Himachal Pradesh?
(A) Western tragopan
(B) Himalayan monal
(C) Snow cock
(D) Blood pheasant
Answer
(B)
Explanation
The Himalayan monal is the state bird of Himachal Pradesh. It is a large, colorful pheasant that is found in the Himalayas. The Himalayan monal is a popular bird with birdwatchers.
Question 7
Which of the following is the state tree of Himachal Pradesh?
(A) Deodar
(B) Pine
(C) Spruce
(D) Fir
Answer
(A)
Explanation
The deodar is the state tree of Himachal Pradesh. It is a large, coniferous tree that is found in the Himalayas. The deodar is a popular tree with woodcutters and is used to make furniture and other wood products.
Question 8
Which of the following is the state flower of Himachal Pradesh?
(A) Rhododendron
(B) Blue poppy
(C) Himalayan lily
(D) Snow lotus
Answer
(A)
Explanation
The rhododendron is the state flower of Himachal Pradesh. It is a beautiful, colorful flower that is found in the Himalayas. The rhododendron is a popular flower with tourists and is used to make wreaths and other floral arrangements.