‘Green Bonus’ for Himalayan States: A New Deal for Ecological Conservation
In response to escalating climate disasters in the Himalayas, a group of former bureaucrats has proposed a ‘Green Bonus’ for Himalayan states to compensate them for their ecological contributions. The plan also demands a revised valuation system for India’s fragile mountain ecosystems.
Why Himalayan States Need a ‘Green Bonus’
The Himalayan region—spanning Uttarakhand, Himachal Pradesh, Jammu & Kashmir, Sikkim, and the northeastern states—acts as India’s ecological shield. These areas:
– Absorb carbon through dense forests
– Regulate water flow for rivers like the Ganga and Brahmaputra
– Host critical biodiversity
Yet, strict environmental regulations limit industrialization, leaving these states economically strained. The ‘Green Bonus’ would function like GST compensation, offsetting lost revenue from restricted development.
Urgency Amplified by Climate Disasters
Recent disasters—glacial lake bursts, landslides, and floods (like Himachal’s 2023 deluge)—highlight the Himalayas’ vulnerability. Experts attribute these to climate change and unchecked development.
“Current policies ignore the true cost of ecological damage,” says Dr. Anil Joshi, an environmental economist backing the proposal. “Valuing nature monetarily can shift incentives from exploitation to conservation.”
How the ‘Green Bonus’ Would Work
The proposal outlines three key mechanisms:
1. Direct Fiscal Transfers – Funds allocated based on carbon capture, water regulation, and biodiversity.
2. Revised Forest Grants – Streamlined disbursement of CAMPA funds for faster conservation support.
3. Ecological Performance Incentives – States maintaining high green standards get bonuses; violators face penalties.
Political and Administrative Challenges
While environmentalists support the idea, hurdles include:
– Resistance from downstream states (e.g., Uttar Pradesh, Bihar) benefiting from Himalayan resources.
– Complex valuation of ecosystem services.
“This needs bipartisan backing,” argues Alok Gupta, a former IAS officer involved in drafting the plan. “The Himalayas are a national priority, not just a regional issue.”
Global Lessons & India’s Opportunity
Countries like Costa Rica (PES model) and Norway (rainforest funding) show ecological compensation works. India could leverage COP28 climate funds to make Himalayan conservation a global benchmark.
What’s Next?
The proposal is now with NITI Aayog and the Environment Ministry. If approved, it could reshape India’s environmental policy—prioritizing valuation over exploitation.
As disasters intensify, the choice is stark: Pay for nature now or face catastrophic costs later.
