India, March 24 -- Himachal Pradesh has launched a Rs 300 crore scheme to empower pastoral communities.

Under this, the government relaxed grazing restrictions and announced digital identity cards for shepherds

This initiative aims to support over 40,000 families, enhance pastoral rights and stabilise the wool economy.

The Himachal Pradesh (HP) government announced a Rs 300 crore Pastoralists Empowerment in Himalayan Ecosystems for Livelihood (PEHEL) scheme in its latest budget for the financial year 2026-27, providing a boost to the community's financial security.

The initiative targets over 40,000 families belonging to Gaddi, Gujjar, Kinnaura and other pastoral groups, commonly known as 'Puhals', who have historically depended on se...