Soil & Water Conservation Department

Director's Message

Welcome to the Official Portal of the Soil & Water Conservation Department, Government of Meghalaya.

This platform serves as a comprehensive resource for citizens, stakeholders, and partners, offering detailed insights on the Department’s policies, flagship programmes, and strategic initiatives. The Department is committed to the conservation and sustainable management of Meghalaya’s vital natural resources—soil, water, and vegetation and by adopting and applying appropriate soil the and water conservation techniques and measures, perpetual utilization of the said resources can be achieved.

In the State renowned as the “Abode of Clouds,” where nature is both abundant and fragile, the Department functions as a steward of ecological balance. We strive to ensure that Meghalaya’s rich natural heritage is managed responsibly, addressing present needs while safeguarding resources for future generations.

Although Meghalaya receives some of the highest rainfall in the world, the State faces significant challenges related to water security and soil health. The rugged terrain, marked by steep slopes and fragile landscapes, makes the region highly vulnerable to soil erosion, landslides, and land degradation.

Over the years, practices such as shifting cultivation (Jhum), unscientific agricultural practices and deforestation have intensified land degradation, resulting in the drying up of natural springs and a decline in soil fertility. This has led to a paradoxical situation where water is plentiful during the monsoon season but scarce during the dry months, adversely affecting drinking water availability and agricultural productivity.

Director,
Soil & Water Conservation Department,
Government of Meghalaya