A state-level launch program of Watershed Yatra was held at the Directorate of Land Resources, Kohima, on 5th February 2025, with G Ikuto Zhimomi, Advisor, Land Resources, Nagaland, as the Guest of Honour. The event was presided over by Kevekha Kevin Zehol NCS, Chairman, SLNA, Nagaland, and Commissioner & Secretary, Land Resources.
In his address, G Ikuto Zhimomi lauded the initiative and stressed the need for collaborative efforts to address challenges of water scarcity and land degradation. He reiterated the government’s commitment to supporting community-based watershed management projects and empowering rural communities, emphasizing that this mass outreach program will ensure sustainable use of land and water resources for future generations.
Albert Ngullie, CEO, SLNA, Nagaland, and Director, Land Resources, delivered the keynote address, highlighting the Watershed Yatra’s importance in the state’s unique ecological landscape. He encouraged every citizen to create awareness at both individual and community levels for sustainable utilization and management of natural resources. A key highlight of the event was the felicitation of progressive farmers who have contributed significantly to water conservation and sustainable agriculture. This was followed by an experience-sharing session by Kekhrielezo Zuyie, Proprietor, KK Wood Touch Furnitures, a beneficiary of the Pradhan Mantri Kisan Sampada Yojana – Watershed Development Component (PMKSY-WDC 2.0).
Short speeches were delivered by Pelenuo, Founder and MD, Zub Zub India, and Ruopfuzhanuo Whiso, Fourth Runner-Up, Miss Universe India 2024, emphasizing community participation and youth engagement in water conservation efforts and land restoration across Nagaland.
The program commenced with a welcome address by the Chairperson, followed by an invocation prayer by Rev. Dr. Kevichalie Metha, Pastor, Peraciezie Baptist Church. Attendees also took a pledge for “Land and Water Conservation,” reinforcing their commitment to environmental sustainability. The Yatra involves a series of activities, including developing watershed projects like percolation tanks and check dams, Watershed Mahotsav to create awareness and encourage community participation, and Watershed Ki Panchayat to involve the community in developing and implementing policies around watershed development.
The State Level Launching Program was immediately followed by the National Level Virtual Launching Program conducted through webcasting, where Shivraj Singh Chouhan, Union Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development, virtually flagged off the Watershed Yatra.
Hekato N, Additional Director, Land Resources, gave the vote of thanks, acknowledging the contributions of all stakeholders in making the event a success.
The initiative aims to promote the adoption of scientific watershed management practices, enhance water security, improve agricultural productivity, and generate employment opportunities in rural areas, ultimately leading to the holistic development of the state.