The government of Himachal Pradesh has entered into a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) to advance climate-resilient and sustainable development efforts within the state. The agreement was formalized in Shimla, with Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu present, along with environment secretary Sushil Singla and UNDP resident representative Angela Lusigi. This partnership will target several key areas, including the promotion of a circular economy, effective waste management practices, electric mobility for waste collection, and initiatives for biodiversity conservation and ecosystem restoration. Additionally, it aims to bolster sustainable livelihoods for local communities while ensuring the active participation of women, marginalized groups, and informal workers in these development efforts. Chief Minister Sukhu emphasized that this collaboration will merge global best practices with local solutions, thereby supporting green livelihoods and accelerating progress towards achieving sustainable development goals. Furthermore, he launched the ‘Safai Mitra Scheme’ aimed at empowering informal waste management workers, enhancing their dignity, safety, and socio-economic well-being.