By Our Reporter
SHILLONG, May 9: Meghalaya is making significant strides in environmental conservation by adopting the Miyawaki forest method—a fast and effective approach to growing dense, native forests. Originally developed in Japan by botanist Akira Miyawaki, this method is now being implemented across the state as part of a major afforestation initiative led by the Soil and Water Conservation department.
Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma, who has played a pivotal role in promoting environmental conservation, has voiced strong concerns about deforestation in Meghalaya and has been actively working to restore green cover through various programmes.
To support these efforts, the government has introduced multiple initiatives, including the Green Meghalaya programme, and has partnered with various organisations to promote conservation and afforestation. The government is also offering financial incentives under the Payment for Ecosystem Services (PES) scheme to encourage forest conservation.
On Thursday, the chief minister visited a Miyawaki forest site at Mawsharoh, Ummir, in East Khasi Hills, where a 1.5-hectare forest is being developed using this method. Similar projects are currently being carried out across 25,000 hectares throughout the state.
Shedding light on the initiative, officials from the Soil and Water Conservation department informed that Miyawaki method helps restore ecosystems by planting native trees closely together in layers, which leads to the rapid growth of dense, self-sustaining forests. These forests, they added, grow faster than traditional plantations and require less maintenance over time.
It may be mentioned that the project is receiving strong support from local communities, who are actively involved in the planting and maintenance of these forests. The first Miyawaki plantation in Meghalaya began three years ago in Garo Hills as a pilot project.
“The project will be expanded across the state as one of our main afforestation drives,” said the chief minister.
Beyond restoring greenery, the Miyawaki method offers several other benefits. These mini-forests help absorb carbon dioxide, combat climate change, improve air quality, reduce noise pollution, and provide habitats for wildlife. Meghalaya’s rich soil and unique climate make it particularly well-suited for such plantations.