The New Indian Express reports that the state Government has decided to launch enterprise development rogramme in 200 villages in the catchment area of Upper Kolab HydroElectric Project to create alternative employment opportunities and nd dependence on forest.

This would include value addition to non-timber forest product, edicinal plants, agriculture and horticulture products, leaf plate aking, hill broom making, mushroom cultivation, spawn production, ruit preservation and opening of handicraft centre for bamboo articles.

Although its a novel initiative, it needs proper implimentation.