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Key highlights of the months:
Arunachal Pradesh
Assam
Meghalaya
Arunachal Pradesh:
In short by (NEIWT): At the 2nd All India Water Ministers’ Conference 2025 in Udaipur, Rajasthan, Home & PHED Minister Mama Natung highlighted Arunachal Pradesh’s best practices in water conservation and the revival of drying water sources, showcasing the state’s commitment to sustainable water management. While co-chairing a session on ‘Water Delivery Services with a Focus on Drinking Water,’ he invited officials to host the next Jal Jeevan Mission (JJM) meeting in Arunachal. The conference’s second day, themed “Water Vision @ 2047,” gathered ministers and experts nationwide to discuss innovative solutions, fostering collaboration for long-term water security and efficient management across India.
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In short by (NEIWT): Researchers from Nagaland University and Cotton University have documented significant glacier retreat in Arunachal Pradesh over the past three decades, raising concerns over long-term water shortages for riparian communities in Arunachal and Assam. Their study, published in the Journal of Earth System Science, found a loss of 110 glaciers since 1988, with shrinking glacial coverage from 585.23 sq km to 275.38 sq km by 2020. The researchers warn of short-term flooding, unstable river flows, and future water scarcity. They call for urgent monitoring, increased research funding, and disaster preparedness to mitigate risks like glacial lake outbursts and climate change impact.
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Assam:
In short by (NEIWT): At the 'Advantage Assam 2.0' summit, Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal announced a ₹4,800 crore investment to boost Assam's inland waterways, focusing on green vessels, cruise tourism, and infrastructure. Key allocations include ₹1,500 crore for transitioning to Green Vessels by 2030 under the 'Harit Nauka' scheme, ₹1,500 crore for enhancing cruise tourism and cargo capacity by 2027-28, and ₹375 crore for Phase II of the Pandu ship repair facility. Additionally, ₹315 crore is earmarked for water metro services in Guwahati and Dhubri. These initiatives aim to promote sustainable transport, economic growth, and riverine tourism in Assam and the Northeast.
Source:
https://pib.gov.in/PressReleasePage.aspx?PRID=2106438
Meghalaya:
Headline: Meghalaya Launches Drive to Rejuvenate 741 Drying Water Sources
In short by (NEIWT): The Meghalaya government is addressing the rapid depletion of 741 critical water sources caused by climate change. Public Health Engineering Minister Marcuise N. Marak highlighted the urgency, linking water scarcity to climate change and its impact on Jal Jeevan Mission projects. A Climate Council, led by Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma, oversees restoration efforts, focusing on spring rejuvenation, groundwater recharge, and rainwater harvesting. The state promotes “Catch the rain when it falls” to conserve water and is tackling environmental damage from jhum cultivation through alternative farming and afforestation. Results will take time, but sustained efforts aim to ensure long-term water sustainability.
Source:
https://thewaterdigest.com/meghalaya-launches-drive-to-rejuvenate-741-drying-water-sources/
Tripura:
In short (NEIWT): The Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) sanctioned Rs 288.93 crore for Tripura under the National Disaster Response Fund (NDRF) after devastating floods in August 2024 killed 32 people and affected 28 lakh. Tripura, along with Nagaland, Andhra Pradesh, Odisha, and Telangana, received a total of Rs 1,554.99 crore for natural disaster relief. Tripura’s losses were estimated at Rs 15,000 crore, with Rs 40 crore previously released by the Centre and Rs 13 crore from the Chief Minister’s Relief Fund. Union Home Minister Amit Shah assured continued support, adding to Rs 18,322.80 crore already allocated to 27 states for disaster relief this fiscal year.
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Headline: Tripura to get water connectivity via B’desh’
In short by (NEIWT): Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal announced that Tripura will soon gain waterways connectivity through jetties on the Gomati River, linking it to the Bay of Bengal via Bangladesh and port cities like Kolkata, Paradip, and Visakhapatnam. This will enhance access to international markets for Tripura’s agricultural products. Sonowal praised the Union Budget’s Rs 25,000 crore allocation for maritime infrastructure, boosting shipbuilding and creating over 10 lakh jobs, and welcomed Rs 500 crore for an AI centre of excellence. He also highlighted Tripura’s tourism potential, with proposals for river cruises, lake cruises, and water sports at Dumboor Lake under consideration.
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Headline: Groundwater Extraction Potential In Tripura Increases To 1.18 BCM In 2024, Says CM Manik Saha
In short by (NEIWT): Tripura’s annual extractable groundwater resources have increased to 1.18 BCM in 2024, up from 1.063 BCM in 2023, as announced by Chief Minister Dr. Manik Saha at the All India State Water Ministers Conference. The state aims to achieve 80% irrigation coverage for cultivable land, currently at 47%. Due to fast-flowing rivers, Tripura is focusing on rainwater storage, minor irrigation dams, and deep tube wells, utilizing only 9.48% of its groundwater. Water conservation efforts include rainwater harvesting, watershed development, and afforestation. Flood protection measures, like embankments and anti-erosion projects, are underway. A long-term action plan for sustainable water management by 2047 is being developed to address demand-supply gaps and climate challenges.
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Headline: Tripura to revive nearly 250 waterfalls: Agriculture Minister Ratan Lal Nath
In short by (NEIWT): Tripura plans to revive nearly 250 waterfalls, announced Agriculture Minister Ratan Lal Nath in Agartala on Sunday. Speaking on the sidelines of a meeting organized by the Department of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare, Nath stated that data is being collected from the Rural Development Department, Forest Department, the Tripura Renewable Energy Development Agency (TREDA), and other stakeholders to assess the status of these waterfalls and determine how many can be restored. This initiative aims to harness the potential of these natural resources for sustainable development and tourism.
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Nagaland:
In short (NEIWT): The Department of Health & Family has informed that, in pursuance to Notification NO.REG-11027/2/2022-Regulation-FSSAI, New Delhi, the 17th October 2024, some regulations under Food Safety and Standards (Prohibition and Restrictions on Sales) Regulations, 2011 has been amended and has come into force.Under the regulation 2.3, sub-regulation 2.3.14, clause 17 and 18 mentions that “No person shall manufacture, sell or exhibit for sale packaged drinking water and mineral water except under the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) Certification Mark”. The clauses 17 and 18 have been omitted. Therefore, Food Business Operators manufacturing water does not need to obtain BIS Certification Mark. However, they will have to mandatorily obtain Food Safety License Certificate through the online portal https://foscos.fssai.gov.in. Water test report shall be a mandatory document and the water needs to be tested in one of the Food Safety & Standards Authority of India Notified Laboratory having the scope of testing Packaged Drinking Water and Mineral Water.
Source:
https://ipr.nagaland.gov.in/DoHFW-INFORMS-ON-PACKAGED-DRINKING-WATER
Headline: Nagaland's 20-day watershed campaign concludes, covering four districts
In short (NEIWT): Nagaland’s 20-day Watershed Campaign, organized by the Union Ministry of Land Resources and the state’s Department of Land Resources, concluded in Zunheboto on February 24. The program, part of the Pradhan Mantri Krishi Sinchayee Yojana, aimed to promote community-driven watershed development across four districts: Kohima, Wokha, Mokokchung, and Zunheboto. It sought to raise awareness, galvanize field-level implementation, and encourage local participation. On the final day, five villages—Asukiqa, Ghokimi, Kitami, Tsaphimi, and Puneboqa—participated in land and water conservation oaths, folk songs, and dances. The campaign emphasized sustainable watershed management and community involvement in conservation efforts.
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Sikkim:
In short (NEIWT): A study on the October 2023 Glacial Lake Outburst Flood (GLOF) in Sikkim’s South Lhonak Lake, led by international scientists, reveals its catastrophic impact: 55 deaths, 70 missing, and extensive damage to infrastructure. Triggered by a 14.7 million cubic meter moraine collapse, the flood released 50 million cubic meters of water, causing a 20-meter-high wave. The study highlights cascading hazards, including landslides and dam breaches, and calls for improved early warning systems, advanced GLOF modeling, resilient infrastructure, and adaptive risk management. Published in Science, it emphasizes the urgent need to address climate-induced glacial hazards to protect vulnerable Himalayan communities.
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In short (NEIWT): The BJP’s Sikkim unit plans to meet Union Environment Minister Bhupender Yadav later this month to raise safety concerns over the clearance granted to rebuild the Teesta III hydel project dam, which was destroyed in the 2023 glacial lake flood. Sikkim BJP chief D.R. Thapa emphasized the need for a fresh public hearing and comprehensive impact-assessment studies before proceeding, highlighting the importance of safety and risk mitigation. Meanwhile, the Congress has opposed the Environment Ministry’s decision, with spokesperson Jairam Ramesh citing ongoing disaster risks and downstream impacts. Thapa had earlier written to PM Modi and Yadav, urging the clearance be paused until scientific studies, a revised flood assessment, and a new environmental impact assessment are completed. The 2023 flood, which killed 100 people, washed away the dam, prompting plans for a stronger concrete structure with increased spillway capacity and an early warning system to prevent future disasters.
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Manipur:
In short (NEIWT): Laii village in Manipur’s Senapati district faces a severe water crisis, impacting sanitation, health, and education. Located 143 km from Imphal, villagers rely on distant springs and rivers for water. Despite two government water supply schemes, the supply is insufficient. The village authority now limits water to 2 buckets for small families and 4 for larger ones daily. The crisis worsened after a pipeline was damaged during road construction. Former ADC Senapati Vice Chairman LK Kasaso has urged authorities to address the issue, ensuring villagers have access to basic necessities. Immediate action is needed to alleviate their plight.
Source:
https://nenow.in/north-east-news/manipur/manipur-laii-village-faces-severe-water-crisis.html
In short (NEIWT): On February 20, Manipur’s Senapati district authorities inspected the Senapati River as part of the Clean Senapati River Campaign. Led by ADM Rang David Kung and ADC CEO Adahrii Maheo, the initiative included the Police Department, student associations, and local committees. The team identified pollution hotspots, issuing strict warnings against dumping waste into the river. Residents were sensitized about pollution’s harmful effects and the need to protect this vital water source. The campaign will continue with awareness programs, community engagement, and cleanliness drives. Authorities urged public participation to safeguard the river and ensure a cleaner environment for the district.
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In short (NEIWT): Manipur Chief Minister N Biren Singh announced efforts to rejuvenate rivers, lakes, and wetlands to protect ecosystems and promote eco-tourism. Speaking at World Wetlands Day in Imphal West, he highlighted projects sent to the Union ministry for funding and state-led initiatives, including restoring the historic Leishang Hiden. Singh emphasized the importance of preserving nature for sustenance and growth. Addressing wetland encroachments, he noted eviction notices were issued, with compensation for legal occupants and evictions for others. The event was attended by Minister Biswajit Thongam and MLAs, underscoring the government’s commitment to environmental conservation and eco-tourism development.
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In short (NEIWT): The Public Health Engineering Department (PHED) announced a disruption in water supply from the Hatta Golapati Water Treatment Plant due to desiltation of the settling tank. The cleaning work, starting February 6, will continue until completion, affecting consumers. RK Surendra, Executive Engineer, urged residents to bear the inconvenience for the larger public interest. The maintenance aims to improve water quality and system efficiency. PHED assured efforts to minimize disruption and restore supply promptly. Consumers are advised to store water in advance and cooperate during the maintenance period.
Source:
https://e-pao.net/GP.asp?src=Snipp3..050225.feb25
Mizoram:
In short (NEIWT): A two-day capacity-building training program for Mizoram’s Public Health Engineer Department (PHED) officials was organized by the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS), Guwahati, on February 17-18 in Aizawl. Attended by engineers, chemists, and officials, the program covered BIS standards on drinking water, sewage treatment, rainwater harvesting, and more. Experts from BIS and other organizations led ten sessions, emphasizing quality and standards in public projects. Pi Teresy Vanlalhruaii, Secretary of PHED, highlighted the importance of standards in public procurement and project implementation. The event aimed to enhance awareness of Indian standards and improve the execution of government initiatives.
Source:
Headline: Mizoram: NBCC bags 3 hydro projects from Govt. of Mizoram
In short (NEIWT): NBCC (India) has been engaged by Mizoram’s Department of Irrigation & Water Resources to plan, design, and implement three hydro projects: 1) A sustainable dam on the Mat River in Serchhip for water security and community development, 2) A multipurpose rainwater harnessing dam in Ngur-Vapar, Champhai District, and 3) A dual mini-dam project at Vantawng Falls in Thenzawl to transform waterfalls into economic and ecological assets. These initiatives aim to enhance water management, sustainability, and local development in Mizoram.
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Headline: Mizoram signs deal for spring-shed project, aims better water conservation
In short (NEIWT): Mizoram’s Rural Development Department and the North East Initiative Development Agency (NEIDA) signed an MoU in Aizawl for a spring-shed development project under WDC-PMKSY 2.0. The agreement, valid for one year and extendable, aims to enhance water conservation and protect water sources, particularly in water-stressed areas, alongside MGNREGS. Titled ‘Project Tuihna – Dam Khawchhuahna,’ it focuses on sustainable water management. NEIDA, experienced in spring-shed development, will collaborate with the department for effective implementation. The MoU was signed by R Zarzosanga, Commissioner & Secretary of Rural Development, and Lalrinkima Bawite, NEIDA’s State Programme Coordinator.
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End of the February 2025 update… North East India Water Talk Water News Collectives (February 2025) We are Water, and we keep an eye on water! Compiled by: K. K. Chatradhara. This newsletter is a monthly publication of the North East India Water Talks (NEIWT). We cover all aspects of water, including reports, paper clips, research papers, incidents, and activities done by different actors, such as government institutions, non-governmental organizations, etc. What is published here is not the position of NEIWT. Each month's first day of news will feature the latest happenings from the previous month. Published: 3rd March, 2025
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8 NEIWT Water news Update February 2025.pdfAll rights reserved NEIWT 2023
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