By Our Reporter
SHILLONG, March 30: The Meghalaya government has announced ambitious plans to expand the state’s irrigation infrastructure and enhance watershed management.
Over the past six years, irrigated land has reportedly increased from 1 lakh hectares in 2018 to 1.54 lakh hectares in 2025, with an additional 59,000 hectares targeted by 2028. The construction of 295 small multi-purpose reservoirs, with an investment of Rs 205 crore, is underway.
Additionally, the government has allocated Rs 559 crore to soil and water conservation initiatives this year, reflecting a 16 per cent increase over the previous allocation.
However, Meghalaya’s irrigation coverage remains below the national average.
According to the Ministry of Jal Shakti, only about 23 per cent of the state’s cultivable land is irrigated, compared to the national average of 48 per cent. This shortfall leaves many farmers, especially those in remote areas of the Garo and Jaintia Hills, dependent on rain-fed agriculture and vulnerable to unpredictable monsoons.
A 2024 study by the Meghalaya State Water Resources Department revealed that over 60 per cent of new irrigation coverage has been concentrated in four districts, namely West Khasi Hills, East Khasi Hills, Ri-Bhoi and parts of Jaintia Hills.
In contrast, rural areas in South Garo Hills and West Garo Hills continue to experience severe water scarcity and limited irrigation facilities. Without equitable distribution, many farmers remain dependent on monsoons, exacerbating agricultural challenges.
Environmental concerns also pose significant challenges. The India State of Forest Report (ISFR) indicates that Meghalaya lost 84.07 sq km of forest cover between 2021 and 2023. Such deforestation impacts natural springs and water recharge zones, potentially undermining the long-term sustainability of water resources.
Climate variability further complicates the situation.
A 2025 study analysed extreme rainfall events in Meghalaya from June 16 to 18, 2022, highlighting their significant impact on the environment and society. Such erratic weather patterns challenge traditional water-harvesting systems, adding to the complexities of water resource management.