India’s First Biochar Plant in Himachal Pradesh to Create Jobs, Earn Carbon Credits: CM Sukhu

In a major step toward sustainable development and climate action, Himachal Pradesh is set to become home to India’s first biochar plant, a project expected to create employment opportunities, generate carbon credits, and strengthen the state’s green economy.

Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu on Tuesday reviewed the progress of the upcoming biochar facility being established at Neri in Hamirpur district and highlighted its potential to transform local livelihoods while promoting environmental conservation.

According to the Chief Minister, the project is projected to generate nearly 28,800 carbon credits during its operational period, providing both ecological and economic benefits for the state.

“Besides supporting environmental protection, the initiative will also create sustainable livelihood opportunities for local communities and encourage greater awareness about climate conservation,” Sukhu said.

Biochar Project to Create New Income Opportunities

The biochar plant is being developed under a tripartite agreement signed in August 2025 involving Dr YS Parmar University of Horticulture and Forestry, the Himachal Pradesh Forest Department, and ProClime Services Private Limited.

Under the agreement, two biochar plants are planned in Hamirpur district, one at Neri and another at Jahu.

The facility will process biomass materials such as pine needles, bamboo, lantana, and other plant residues to produce biochar, a carbon-rich material known for improving soil fertility and helping capture atmospheric carbon.

To encourage community participation, biomass sourced locally is being purchased at ₹2.50 per kilogram, along with additional incentives linked to quality standards. This is expected to provide a supplementary income stream for farmers and rural households.

Part of Climate-Smart Agriculture Programme

Officials said the initiative forms part of the HIM Evergreen Integrated Climate-Smart Agriculture and Agro-forestry Programme, which seeks to integrate trees into farming systems and improve agricultural resilience against climate challenges.

The programme aims to cover nearly 50,000 hectares of agricultural landscapes across Himachal Pradesh and is expected to help manage approximately 13.5 million tonnes of carbon dioxide emissions.

Experts believe the initiative could significantly improve soil health, enhance biodiversity, and strengthen long-term farm sustainability through carbon sequestration practices.

Advanced monitoring tools, including Geographic Information Systems (GIS), remote sensing technologies, and digital data collection platforms, will be deployed to ensure transparency and alignment with international carbon market standards.

Global Experts Back Initiative

Former Executive Director of United Nations Environment Programme and ProClime Advisory Board member Erik Solheim reaffirmed the organisation’s commitment to combining scientific knowledge with practical implementation strategies to address global climate challenges.

Industry observers view the project as a significant milestone in India’s transition toward a low-carbon economy, positioning Himachal Pradesh as a leader in sustainable and climate-resilient development.

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