By Dr. Moloy Sarmah Baruah, Dr. M. Mokidul Islam & Dr. Meghna Sarma
Water is the lifeline of agriculture, livestock and human settlements, particularly in the North Eastern Region (NER) of India, which is often perceived as water-abundant due to high rainfall. However, the availability of quality water throughout the year remains a growing concern. Quality water refers to water that meets acceptable chemical, physical and biological standards for safe use by humans, animals and ecosystems. In the livestock sector, water plays a crucial role in animal health, productivity and environmental sustainability. Therefore, conservation of both water quantity and quality is increasingly important, especially in fragile hill ecosystems like Meghalaya and other parts of the North East.
Global and Regional Water Scarcity Scenario
Globally, freshwater resources are limited and under increasing pressure. Only about 2.5 per cent of the Earth’s water is freshwater, and nearly 70 per cent of this is locked in glaciers and permanent snow. Projections suggest that global water withdrawal may increase by over 20 per cent by 2025. In India, despite receiving adequate annual rainfall, many regions face seasonal water scarcity due to uneven distribution and inadequate conservation practices.
In the North Eastern Region, including Meghalaya one of the highest rainfall-receiving states in the world—water scarcity is increasingly evident during the dry months. Rapid land-use changes, deforestation, limestone mining, soil erosion and unscientific agricultural practices have adversely affected springs, streams and groundwater recharge. As a result, both humans and livestock face shortages of safe drinking water during lean seasons.
Impact of Livestock Sector on Water Resources in the North East
Livestock rearing in Meghalaya and other NE states is largely smallholder-based, involving cattle, pigs, goats and backyard poultry. While the sector provides critical livelihood support to tribal and rural households, improper waste management and unplanned livestock housing can negatively affect local water sources. Animal excreta, wash water and farm runoff can contaminate nearby springs, streams and ponds common sources of drinking water in hill areas. The presence of nutrients, pathogens and zoonotic microorganisms in untreated waste poses risks to animal health, public health and aquatic ecosystems.
Strategies for Water Quality Conservation in Livestock Farms
Effective water conservation at the farm level is both feasible and cost-effective. Repairing leaking pipes, using water-efficient drinking systems and dry cleaning livestock sheds before washing can significantly reduce water wastage. Livestock yards should be constructed away from natural springs and streams, with proper flooring and drainage to prevent contamination. Direct access of animals to water bodies should be restricted, and alternative drinking arrangements should be provided.In high-rainfall areas like Meghalaya, rainwater harvesting from rooftops of animal sheds, feed stores and manure pits offers immense potential for year-round water availability. Proper storage and treatment of harvested rainwater can support livestock drinking and farm sanitation needs. Regular testing of water sources for basic quality parameters is essential to ensure safety.
Conclusion
Despite high rainfall, the North Eastern Region is increasingly vulnerable to water quality degradation and seasonal scarcity. In states like Meghalaya, protecting water sources from livestock-related pollution is vital for sustaining rural livelihoods and fragile ecosystems. Conservation of quality water in the livestock sector requires scientific management, community participation and behavioral change at the grassroots level. By adopting simple water conservation measures, livestock farmers can safeguard water resources, improve animal productivity and contribute to long-term environmental sustainability. Ensuring clean and safe water today is essential for a resilient livestock sector and a secure future for the North East.
(The writers work at ICAR KrishiVigyan Kendra, Ri-Bhoi, Meghalaya)
