Photo Courtesy: India Today Group
Shillong: Meghalaya is scaling up its environmental efforts by targeting an additional 50,000 hectares of forest conservation. The government is expanding its GREEN Meghalaya+ initiative, which incentivizes individuals, clans, and communities to commit to long-term forest protection for at least 30 years. This scheme has become one of the most significant community-driven conservation projects in India.
The state government recently distributed over Rs 25 crore to more than 2,700 beneficiaries in Shillong, with an additional Rs 1.16 crore provided to 60 recipients in Tura. These projects rely heavily on local participation to safeguard biodiversity and traditional heritage, as seen in areas like Daronggre and Mustem village. Officials say the programs are designed to strengthen climate resilience, improve water security and expand forest cover.
State data shows that more than 30,000 hectares of new forest cover have been established over the past eight years. Beyond tree planting, Meghalaya is focusing on water conservation through initiatives like the Spring Mapping Initiative and the MegARISE project. These efforts have led to the mapping of 60,000 springs and the development of over 530 community-based water harvesting projects to bolster water security.
The government is also integrating green measures into urban planning, including an avenue plantation project in the New Shillong Township that will plant 6,000 trees. Projects like MegLIFE further support this vision by aiming to restore 22,500 hectares of degraded forest land across the state. By combining infrastructure growth with ecosystem services, Meghalaya continues to prioritize sustainable development through local engagement.
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