Integrated Watershed Management Programme (IWMP)
The Soil & Water Conservation Department, Meghalaya had been implementing watershed development programme of the Ministry of Rural Development (MoRD) since 1999-2000 under the Integrated Wasteland Development Programme (IWDP).
In 2008, with the coming into effect of the new Common Guidelines, the Watershed Development Programmes have been merged together to form one comprehensive programme, namely, Integrated Watershed Management Programme (IWMP).
The main objectives of the IWMP are to preserve and conserve the ecology, restore and develop degraded natural resources by arresting soil loss, improving soil health, soil-moisture regime augmentation, promote water harvesting, recharging ground water, enhance crop production and promote livelihood and gainful employment opportunities.
To facilitate the implementation of IWMP at the state level, the Meghalaya State Watershed and Wasteland Development Agency (MSWWDA) has been established.