With many streams in Zunheboto gradually drying up, the Government of Nagaland today launched the Project Level Watershed Mahotsav 2026 at Cornerstone Higher Secondary School under the Pradhan Mantri Krishi Sinchayee Yojana (PMKSY–WDC 2.0).
Speaking at the event, District Project Officer I Acato Chishi warned that water shortages are affecting drinking water availability across the district, calling for urgent collective action in watershed management.
Chishi also highlighted local successes, including coffee cultivation, which has been in Zunheboto since 2016. Last year, the district earned approximately Rs 29 lakh from coffee production, showing the crop’s growing economic potential.
Tsaphimi village was recognized as the national winner of the Watershed Janbhagidari Cup 2025, earning Rs 10 lakh for its outstanding performance. To further raise awareness, the department has launched reels and photography competitions, offering cash prizes of Rs 50,000 and Rs 10,000, respectively. Participants can inquire at the department office for more details.
Deputy Commissioner Dharam Raj, IAS, the chief guest, explained that a watershed collects, conserves, and channels water for sustainable use. He stressed that poor watershed management in Nagaland, despite abundant rainfall, continues to cause water scarcity. The state still falls short of the United Nations guideline of 250 liters of water per person per day.
The DC urged students and the public to actively participate in competitions and called for strong community involvement in watershed initiatives.
The program also featured the virtual launch of Bhumi Poojan for new works, Digital Lokarpan for completed projects, Mission Watershed Punarutthan, and social media competitions to boost public outreach.
The program also featured the virtual launch of Bhumi Poojan for new works, Digital Lokarpan for completed projects, Mission Watershed Punarutthan, and social media competitions to boost public outreach.
The event was chaired by Qhenito Yepthomi, Watershed Development Team Member, with a vote of thanks delivered by Ikatoli Achumi, WDTM, Department of Land Resources.