The Himachal Government is all set to partner with the Indian School of Business (ISB) to provide policy inputs and research support for the emerging bio-energy sector, Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu said while presiding over a meeting with the representatives of ISB on late Friday evening.
The State Government would initiate a pilot project for Bio-energy production from pine needles and bamboo as the State is blessed with an enormous wealth of conifer forests and has a high potential for bamboo production, said the Chief Minister. The project would involve the local community and increase their income, he added.
“Many sectors like thermal power, cement and steel were exploring fossil fuel substitutes to reduce emissions.
Thus, the scope can be expanded to include fuel briquettes made from pine needles as potential substitutes, which has the advantage of much higher calorific value and this would also pave the way for strengthening the rural economy”, said Sukhu.
ISB would provide the business model and technology to make this project a success, with the assistance and cooperation of the State Government, said the Chief Minister, adding that ISB would also ensure adequate market linkage.