Nagaland on Monday launched the State-Level Watershed Mahotsav 2025 at Naga Solidarity Park in Kohima, marking a significant push toward integrated watershed management and sustainable natural resource development in the state. The event was graced by Minister of State for Rural Development and Communications, Pemmasani Chandra Sekhar, who attended the launch as the guest of honour. In his address, the Minister underscored the crucial role of watershed development in enhancing rural livelihoods, ensuring water security and strengthening long-term ecological resilience.
He highlighted that 90 percent of watershed funding comes from the Central government, and added that Rs 80 crore has been sanctioned for Nagaland, acknowledging the State government for doing “commendable work” in implementing watershed programmes.
Sekhar also spoke on the broader developmental landscape of the Northeast, stating that before Prime Minister Narendra Modi assumed office, the region received limited attention from national leaders. He emphasised that connectivity both physical and digital has significantly improved under the present government, strengthening integration and development across the Northeastern states.
He further noted that the Hornbill Festival stands as a symbol of unity among the Naga tribes and reflects the rich customs and cultural identity of the people. “Watershed development is extremely important all over the world. Without people’s involvement, it becomes very difficult,” he said, urging communities to actively participate in conservation and sustainable management efforts. G. Ikuto Zhimomi, Advisor, Land Resources, who hosted the event, lauded the collaborative efforts of the department, partner agencies and communities in driving Nagaland’s watershed mission forward.
The event featured the screening of a documentary on the Watershed Mahotsav, followed by a series of digital launches, including: Digital Bhumi Poojan of new watershed works; Digital Lokarpan of completed projects; launch of Mission Watershed Punarutthan, aimed at revitalising watershed interventions and felicitation of the winners of the Watershed Janbhagidari Cup 2025. A brief note on the significance and objectives of the Mahotsav was presented by Albert Ngullie, CEO, SLNA and Director, Land Resources.
Officials stated that the Watershed Mahotsav 2025 aims to enhance public participation, strengthen conservation-focused practices and reinforce Nagaland’s long-term strategy for ecological balance and livelihood security. The event also highlighted the State’s commitment to scaling up integrated watershed development through digital innovation, community engagement and coordinated departmental efforts
