‘Despite our reputation for heavy rainfall, the state experiences severe water shortages by early spring’
By Our Reporter
SHILLONG, March 19: The Meghalaya government has launched the Watershed Yatra and Self Help Group (SHG) Mela, an initiative focused on long-term water conservation and sustainable farming.
The newly introduced Pradhan Mantri Krishi Sinchayee Yojana – Watershed Development Component 2.0 (PMKSY-WDC 2.0) aims to restore degraded land, improve soil health, and create a robust watershed management framework. Unlike traditional government programs, this initiative hinges on community participation, integrating thousands of villagers in a collective effort to protect vital natural resources.
Agriculture Minister Ampareen Lyngdoh who inaugurated the programme, spoke about the paradox of Meghalaya’s water crisis.
“Despite our reputation for heavy rainfall, many parts of the state experiences severe water shortages by early spring. Without conservation, we risk jeopardising both our agricultural future and drinking water security,” she said.
To counter these threats, the government has constructed 1,390 water harvesting structures across 3,000 hectares.
However, climate change, deforestation, and soil degradation continue to exert pressure on Meghalaya’s fragile ecosystem. “Seventeen per cent of the state’s soil is degraded, directly affecting its water retention capacity and agricultural output. Moreover, the rise in new plant diseases has threatened productivity. This initiative is designed to address these pressing issues,” Lyngdoh added.
The watershed yatra aims to be a mobile awareness campaign designed to bring knowledge and solutions directly to the people. It will travel through all districts, engaging farmers, local leaders, and civil society members in discussions on sustainable agricultural practices, soil conservation, and rainwater harvesting. Deputy Commissioners and Divisional Officers will lead district-level events to ensure widespread community involvement.
Meghalaya has 2,776 micro-watersheds, with projects being implemented based on priority. Thirty-two projects worth 175 crore are currently in progress under PMKSY-WDC 2.0, covering 32,000 hectares since 2021,
with an ambitious target of 62,000 hectares in the coming years, according to Commissioner and Secretary Joram Beda. Meghalaya’s efforts in watershed development have positioned it among the top 10 performing states in the country under the scheme.
Beyond conservation, the initiative also promotes economic empowerment. The program integrates 1,200 SHGs, providing rural entrepreneurs a platform to showcase and sell their products through the SHG Mela.