The issue regarding the diversion of forest land for non-forestry purpose was discussed at length at the meeting. The Secretary, Ministry of Environment and Forests, MoEFCC stated that such diversions get delayed at the District Forest Officer and Conservator of Forest level.

He suggested the state government to flag all issues related to forest so that they could be taken up in the draft policy which is under preparation. NITI Aayog Vice Chairman suggested the MoEFCC for flexible laws.

Issues related to education, skill development, rural development, home affairs, DoPT, tourism, textiles were resolved at the meeting.

Regarding translocation of ancient temples submerged in Gobind Sagar lake, ASI team agreed to visit the site in October first week to identify the sites for translocation.

Member, NITI Aayog, Dr. Ramesh Chand, suggested the State Government to use the platform of NITI Aayog to flag such issues which require the guidance and intervention of NITI Aayog.

Chief Secretary, Himachal Pradesh expressed his deep satisfaction at the outcome of the meeting and appreciated such initiatives by the NITI Aayog.

Himachal Pradesh is the fourth state after Bihar, Telangana and Rajasthan whose pending issues with the Central ministries/departments have been taken up by the NITI Aayog.

States have been finding this platform very useful since their issues which have been pending with the line Ministries of the Central Government/Departments for years, either get resolved or alternative feasible solutions are explored.

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