Chief Minister Trivendra Singh Rawat has directed that within a fortnight all departments should prepare a livelihood plan and reform plan and submit these to the chief secretary for approval. A plan should also be made within 10 days to increase revenue in various sectors, he said.

Chairing a meeting on livelihood opportunities, Rawat stressed on large scale efforts to improve the economy and facilitate employment for people in the post Covid period. The first aim is to make special efforts for those whose livelihoods have been affected by Covid-19. While encouraging local produce, their packaging, processing and marketing should also be worked upon. Considering the possibility in the medicinal and aromatic plant sector, the forest and horticulture departments need to work on fruits, flowers, herbs and bee-keeping. Along with encouraging local products, focus will also have to be laid on their branding. Special focus should be laid on the home-stay scheme to boost tourism. Along with home-stays foods of medicinal and nutritional values should also be promoted. Further, the cluster approach should be encouraged in the agriculture sector.

To enhance the livelihood resources of the people, farmers should be encouraged to become involved in other activities along with agriculture. Rawat further said that departments will have to simplify clearances and other procedures to expedite works. Agriculture and tourism are sectors which can provide swift benefit to the people, he said.Chief secretary Utpal Kumar Singh and other officials concerned were also present in the meeting.