Haryana

• 25 Jan 2025

Haryana Cabinet Approves Clean Air Project

Why in News? 

The Haryana Cabinet has approved the Haryana Clean Air Project for Sustainable Development (HCAPSD), a ₹3,647 crore initiative aimed at improving air quality and reducing emissions across the Indo-Gangetic Plain.  

Key Points 

• Haryana Clean Air Project (HCAPSD): 
  • The project is supported by the World Bank to improve air quality and reduce emissions in Haryana and the Indo-Gangetic Plain. 
  • It aims to implement air pollution control technologies and coordinate efforts with other states to reduce cross-border emissions. 
  • The project will also work on enhancing the ease of living for citizens through cleaner air. 
• Project Implementation and Governance: 
  • The project will be led by the Haryana Department of Environment, Forests, and Climate Change, in collaboration with several other departments, including agriculture, transport, and industries. 
  • A three-tier governing structure will oversee progress, with the chief secretary chairing the top-tier committee. 
• Clean Air Ambassadors Program: 
  • A state-wide fellowship program will be launched, including 24 "clean air ambassadors" at the district level to drive implementation. 
• Other Steps Taken by the State Government: 
  • Women’s Empowerment Scheme - Lado Lakshmi Yojana: 
    • Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini announced that a framework for the Lado Lakshmi Yojana for women will be presented in the upcoming state budget.  
      • The Haryana government has launched the Lado Lakshmi Yojana to support economically disadvantaged women in the state. Through this program, women living below the poverty line will receive ₹2,100 per month. 
  • Civil Judges’ Departmental Exams: 
    • The Cabinet amended the rules for civil judges’ departmental exams, now to be conducted by the high court or a nominated authority. 
  • Relief for Ex-Employees: 
    • The state government has waived recoverable amounts from ex-employees of Haryana Minerals Limited (HML), and Handloom and Export Corporation. 
    • A fixed monthly honorarium, ranging from ₹36,000 to ₹20,000, will be provided to these ex-employees, effective from October 2020.