Massive water conservation effort to boost irrigation, resilience
SHILLONG, 27 May 2025: In a major push towards sustainable agriculture, climate resilience, and rural development, Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma recently launched the ₹516 crore Climate-Adaptive Community-Based Water Harvesting Project (CACbWHP) in North Garo Hills.
The initiative, funded by the Asian Development Bank (ADB), was inaugurated at Mendipathar College Cricket Ground.
Aimed at boosting water security, improving irrigation infrastructure, and enhancing climate-resilient farming systems, the project will see the construction of 533 water harvesting structures and the installation of 50 automated weather stations across 12 districts in Meghalaya.
The Hon'ble Chief Minister also laid the foundation stone for the Koknal Water Harvesting Structure at Rangmangre village. “This initiative aligns with the Meghalaya State Water Policy 2019, aiming to protect natural resources and empower communities,” he said.
The ₹516 crore project—valued at $62.5 million—targets the creation of 10 million cubic meters of water storage, protection of 12,500 hectares of catchment areas, and irrigation transformation of 3,297 hectares of farmland. It is designed to capture excess monsoon rainfall and flash floods, aiding farmers during periods of water scarcity.
Additionally, the ₹47.19 crore Megh Adapt Pay initiative was launched to promote afforestation, land restoration, and eco-friendly agricultural development. Under this scheme, each Village Employment Council (VEC) may receive up to ₹10 lakh in incentives to lead community-led conservation and plantation drives.
“Through these programs, the government and community will work hand-in-hand to restore degraded lands, improve ecosystem health, and expand green cover,” said Chief Minister Sangma.
Dr. Joram Beda highlighted that the project is a precursor to World Environment Day and reiterated its community-centric approach. “In Garo Hills alone, over 200 watershed projects are being rolled out, empowering local committees to grow plantations suited to their ecology,” he noted.
During the event, cheques were distributed to 87 Village Employment Councils under Megh Adapt Pay, and 37 Self Help Groups under PMKSY WDC 2.0, affirming the government’s commitment to inclusive and participatory rural development.
Minister Marcuise N. Marak emphasized the strategic importance of water conservation in transforming Meghalaya into a top-performing state by 2028, stressing that water security and sustainable development are key to economic progress.
