Union Jal Shakti Minister C.R. Paatil recently led a review of externally funded projects focusing on sustainable irrigation development in Assam, the economic impacts of Brahmaputra water diversion, and water management practices in North East India. Emphasizing the significance of scientific water management, Paatil highlighted the need for capacity-building and increased state involvement to tackle emerging challenges in the region. The Ministry reaffirmed its dedication to enhancing the North Eastern Regional Institute of Water and Land Management (NERIWALM) as a center of excellence in water and land management.
The meeting of the Governing Body of NERIWALM discussed various initiatives, including plans for an Irrigation Field Laboratory and Demonstration Farm to boost research and technology dissemination in the area. Additionally, deliberations centered on supporting M.Tech. and Ph.D. students with scholarships, faculty development, research enhancement, and the advancement of climate- and GIS-based applications in water resources management. The Governing Body also examined a study on the livelihood challenges faced by erosion-affected families in the Brahmaputra Valley, focusing on sustainable rehabilitation and livelihood interventions for affected communities.
Reviewing the institute’s accomplishments, the Governing Body approved key institutional matters and outlined strategies to bolster water and land management in the North Eastern Region. The approval of the Annual Report and Audited Accounts for FY 2024–25 highlighted NERIWALM’s progress in capacity building, research, and academic activities. Notably, NERIWALM surpassed its training targets by conducting 71 programs benefiting over 2,800 participants during the year, while maintaining its specialized MTech and PhD programs in Water Resource Management.
