Tura, March 20 : The second day of the “Watershed Yatra,” an initiative focused on long-term water conservation and sustainable farming, was held at Raja Apal UP School Playground in North Garo Hills, with Minister of Soil and Water Conservation, Marcuise N. Marak, emphasizing the critical need for watershed preservation.
Marak stressed the importance of the “Watershed Yatra” as a vital initiative and urged that it evolve from a mere program into a widespread movement. He called for comprehensive plans to protect and restore water bodies across the region, highlighting the collective responsibility to safeguard water resources.
Dr. Joram Beda, Commissioner & Secretary of the Soil and Water Conservation Department, emphasized the critical role of watersheds in ensuring clean drinking water, especially in Meghalaya, which relies heavily on mountain springs. He cited the alarming increase in Jhum (shifting) cultivation, particularly in the Garo Hills region, as a major threat to these watersheds.
The Pradhan Mantri Krishi Sinchayee Yojana – Watershed Development Component 2.0 (PMKSY-WDC 2.0) has positively impacted over 1,000 farmers and collaborated with 1,188 self-help groups. Key achievements include the construction of 1,000 water harvesting structures, implementation of 1,538 irrigation activities, and development of 2,076 micro-watersheds, with 30-40% classified as critical or semi-critical. The initiative also integrates 1,200 self-help groups, providing them with Rs 50,000 each in seed money for livelihood activities.
Other dignitaries, including Timothy Shira, Deputy Speaker, and MLAs Rupert Momin, Shri Marthon J. Sangma, and Shri Ponseng Marak, urged the people to protect and preserve their livelihood sources.
The event, attended by senior officials, self-help group representatives, and students, underscored the importance of sustainable water management and the need for collective action to protect Meghalaya’s vital water resources.
