The Government of India and the Asian Development Bank signed a $50 million loan agreement on Thursday to fund an ambitious water-harvesting project in the northeastern state of Meghalaya.

According to a statement, the project will support the construction of 532 small water-storage facilities across 12 districts in Meghalaya and the development of 3,000 hectares of area to provide reliable irrigation areas for farmers.

The project aims to enhance water security by constructing water-harvesting systems to improve water access and reduce community vulnerability against climate change impacts in Meghalaya.

These facilities will use climate-resilient designs to manage heavy monsoon rainfall and flash floods while ensuring reliable water supplies during the dry season.

The project also includes developing 50 weather stations for climate data gathering and monitoring and micro-irrigation systems in Garo, Jaintia, and Khasi regions.

A Blueprint for Sustainability

The initiative is part of the Meghalaya State Water Policy 2019, focusing on sustainable water resource management through community participation.

Juhi Mukherjee, joint secretary at the Department of Economic Affairs, who signed the agreement on behalf of India, said the project represents a significant step in implementing the MSWP’s vision of integrated water resource management.

“By harnessing water resources effectively, the project will reduce vulnerability to climate risks and support sustainable agricultural practices, fisheries, and livelihoods,” said Mukherjee in the statement.

Mio Oka, ADB’s country director for India, highlighted the project’s alignment with the bank’s broader climate adaptation and economic resilience goals.

“Beyond financing, ADB will assist the state in integrating climate adaptation measures into water security plans,” Oka said.

Empowering Local Communities

The program also emphasizes capacity building, particularly among local institutions and farmers.

The Meghalaya State Watershed and Wasteland Development Agency will equip farmers — especially women — with horticulture, fishery techniques and irrigation management skills.

“This project isn’t just about infrastructure; it’s about empowering communities to adapt and thrive in the face of climate challenges,” Oka added.

Established in 1966, ADB continues its commitment to fostering inclusive, resilient and sustainable growth across Asia and the Pacific.

The Meghalaya water-harvesting project aligns with its mission to support the region’s most vulnerable communities while addressing pressing climate challenges.

As the impacts of climate change intensify, initiatives like this underscore the importance of partnerships in building sustainable solutions that safeguard livelihoods and ecosystems.

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