The ‘Watershed Yatra’, a nationwide outreach campaign to mobilise community participation in watershed development and conservation was held at Mawan village under Mylliem block in East Khasi Hills district today.
The event aimed to promote sustainable water management and soil conservation practices while fostering community participation in watershed development initiatives.
Adviser to the Chief Minister, Hamletson Dohling at the ‘Bhoomi Poojan’ ceremony inaugurated the springtap chamber, a significant step toward enhancing water conservation efforts in the region.
Dohling spoke about the watershed programme and its benefits, stating that the government is working hard for its efficient implementation. He mentioned that the government has a vision for the PMKSY initiatives and their implementation. He said that through this programme, an awareness message about protecting nature could be spread and called for collaborative efforts between the government and stakeholders to protect the environment and its natural resources.
A plantation drive was also held during the programme.
Certificates were also presented to recognise the efforts and contributions of water warriors and organisations toward watershed development.
At the state level, the yatra has successfully covered North Garo Hills, East Garo Hills, West Garo Hills, South West Garo Hills, South Garo Hills, West Khasi Hills, Eastern West Khasi Hills, South West Khasi Hills, and East Khasi Hills. Furthermore, the yatra will proceed to West Jaintia Hills, East Jaintia Hills, and Ri Bhoi district.
The PMKSY-WDC 2.0 scheme focuses on sustainable water resource management, land conservation, and improved irrigation efficiency to enhance agricultural productivity. By integrating agriculture, afforestation, and water management, the program aims to create climate-resilient ecosystems while supporting rural livelihoods.
