V Shashant Shekhar, Nagaland’s Additional Chief Secretary and Agriculture Production Commissioner, announced that the State Government, Government of India, and World Bank are collaborating on the ELEMENT Project to enhance the lives of local residents. This initiative, officially known as Enhancing Landscape and Ecosystem Management, aims to restore forests, manage resources sustainably, and improve livelihoods for communities dependent on forests. It emphasizes integrated landscape management, climate resilience, and active community involvement across all districts in Nagaland.
The ELEMENT Project addresses challenges posed by jhum farming and development through scientific methods, capacity building, and support for enterprises, particularly benefiting women and youth. During the signing of Memoranda of Agreements (MoAs) with the Department of Land Resources and the Nagaland Empowerment of People through Economic Development (NEPED) on December 18 in Kohima, Shekhar highlighted the importance of these collaborations, which will be expanded to involve additional departments in the future.
He explained that while the World Bank has provided a loan for the initiative, repayment will be a joint effort between the State Government and the Government of India. Shekhar noted that one of the signed MoAs focuses on spring shed development, asserting, “Water is an essential requirement for life itself.” He referenced historical civilizations that flourished near river valleys due to their access to water.
Over the years, excessive extraction of water through borewells and tankers has raised concerns about depleting water sources. Shekhar urged the need for concerted efforts to replenish these resources to prevent future water shortages. He emphasized that investment in research and development is crucial for a society’s and country’s economic growth.
Additionally, he mentioned that NEPED has previously implemented successful projects, underscoring the organization’s expertise in this field. The event also featured remarks from Hekato N, Additional Director of the Department of Land Resources, and Kovi Meyase, Team Leader of NEPED. Amongla C, Deputy Project Director of the ELEMENT project, chaired the program, while Limanenla, Joint Secretary of Agriculture in Nagaland, extended a vote of thanks. Dr. G. Hukugha Sema, Commissioner and Secretary for Land Resources in Nagaland, was also in attendance.
Original Source: https://www.morungexpress.com/nagaland-element-project-to-improve-lives-of-common-people
Category: Nagaland
Tags:
Publish Date: 2025-12-18 23:18:00
