Problems of mountainous regions are quite different from plains. This is the reason that for each mountainous region, specific development plan should be made, keeping in view the different topography, culture, social and economical specialties. Judicious use of land, minerals, water and other resources is necessary. All development plans should be made by active participation of the people, specially women.
Following development plans can be made for mountainous regions:
1. The main development program for mountainous regions includes gardening, plantation, animal, husbandry, poultry, agriculture, forestry, soil conservation and rural industries. Under this, emphasis is laid upon the package of programmes and participation.
2. Horticulture: Tea, spices, etc. agro forestry, social forestry etc. are included.
3. In some hilly areas, shifting agriculture is in practice. Programs are made to convert these into sustainable agriculture practice and establishment of farmers.
4. Hilly areas where pastures are available, animal rearing should be promoted.
5. Hilly areas are most favorable for some specific industries which require pollution free environment, cold climate, high efficiency and value addition like electronics, medicines, optical glass etc. Cottage industries like rug knitting and hand loom industries are also favorable. To promote these industries, planning should be done.
6. Mountainous areas, specially Himalayan region, are famous for their biodiversity, medicinal plants, flora and fauna and other wildlife species which are found in abundance. Therefore, to protect and conserve valuable plant and animal wealth, establishment of biosphere reserves, national parks and wildlife sanctuaries is important.
7. For scientific planning in mountainous regions, detailed knowledge of resources (like soil, mineral, vegetation, water, etc.) is required, for which remote sensing technique, aerial photo technique and Land survey can be used. Here, long term and short term planning should be done for a region, sub region and micro level. The participation and involvement of people should be encouraged.