Shimla, Sept. 27 -- Agriculture minister Chander Kumar reiterated that self-reliant Himachal and doubling farmers' income is the government's goal.

A review meeting of the animal husbandry department was held on Friday at the directorate, chaired by agriculture and animal husbandry minister Chander Kumar during which progress of various departmental schemes were deliberated.

The minister said that communities such as the Gaddi and Gujjar have made remarkable contributions. A comprehensive scheme has been prepared for them, named "PEHEL" (pastoralists empowerment through holistic ecosystem for livelihoods). The draft has been sent to the Central government for approval. This scheme will provide significant benefits to shepherds.

He emph...