Nagaland: Project Level Watershed Mahotsav 2026 inaugurated at Zunheboto

The Project Level Watershed Mahotsav 2026, organised under PMKSY–WDC 2.0 by the State Level Nodal Agency, Department of Land Resources, Government of Nagaland, was inaugurated at Cornerstone Higher Secondary School, Zunheboto, on Saturday.
Addressing the gathering, District Project Officer, Land Resources Department, Zunheboto, I. Acato Chishi underscored the urgency of watershed management, noting that many streams in the district are gradually drying up, thereby affecting even drinking water availability. He emphasised that collective action was vital to address the growing challenge of water scarcity.
Chishi also highlighted the district’s progress in coffee cultivation, remarking that the crop has shown promising results since its introduction in 2016. He informed that coffee production from Zunheboto has now reached the market, generating revenue of approximately Rs. 29 lakh last year.
He further shared that Tsaphimi village had emerged as the national winner of the Watershed Janbhagidari Cup 2025, earning a cash award of Rs. 10 lakh for its exemplary performance. To enhance visibility and promote Information, Education and Communication (IEC) activities, the department has introduced reels and photography contests, with prizes of Rs. 50,000 and Rs. 10,000 respectively.
Deputy Commissioner of Zunheboto, Dharam Raj, who graced the occasion as chief guest, explained the concept of a watershed as an area where water is collected, conserved and channelled into streams for sustainable use. He observed that despite Nagaland receiving abundant rainfall, the state continues to face water scarcity due to poor watershed management. He cited Israel as an example of efficient water utilisation and noted that Nagaland is yet to meet the United Nations guideline of 250 litres of water per person per day.
The DC urged students and the public to actively participate in the IEC competitions to spread awareness and called for strong community involvement in watershed initiatives.
The programme also witnessed the virtual and digital launch of Bhumi Poojan for new works, Digital Lokarpan for completed works, Mission Watershed Punarutthan, and the unveiling of social media competitions to further promote IEC activities.
The event was chaired by Qhenito Yepthomi, Watershed Development Team Member, while the vote of thanks was delivered by Ikatoli Achumi, WDTM, Department of Land Resources.