HP Cabinet approves PEHEL project

Pastoralists Employment in Himalayan Ecosystems for Livelihoods (PEHEL) project was approved by the Himachal Cabinet at the end of March 2026. The project aims to strengthen the rural economy, preserve the ecological balance in high altitude areas, modernise pastoral practices, and to conserve indigenous breeds.

The government has also directed the Forest Department to not interfer with the customary grazing rights of the Gaddi community.

The project proposes comprehensive breed improvement through the introduction of superior germplasm, in addition to establishing farms modelled on advanced sheep and goat rearing practices.