Senior BJP leader and Haridwar MP, Ramesh Pokhariyal ‘Nishank’ raised the issue of development of non conventional sources of energy in the Himalayan region during Zero hour in lok Sabha on Thursday. Praising the government, he said that the 13511 out of 18452 villages that were in darkness from last 70 years have been illuminated and the target of energizing remaining villages would also be achieved soon. Nishank said that the success of all the ambitious projects of Union Government like Make in India, Skill India and Digital India depend on the availability of power. Highlighting the need of green energy for the country the Haridwar MP expressed concern over increasing dependency on thermal power projects for meeting the energy needs as they emanate pollution. He said that the pollution is affecting ecosystem, damaging Himalayan ice cover and affecting water resources. laying emphasis on the general of pollution free power he said that for Himalayan states the hydro, solar and wind energy should be tapped for development. Nishank said that the states should be encouraged for setting up mini hydro power projects. He argued that these projects would not only stop migration but also usher in a new era of development in these states. The BJP leader said that participation of local population in these projects should be ensured and these projects would meet the twin objectives of driving away energy crisis and environment protection in ecologically sensitive areas. He said that the government should undertake surveys in Himalayan region and earmark projects at the level of village panchayats. This would also bring about local participation in these developmental projects, he added.