Image Source: PIB

India’s water resource planning in the North Eastern region received renewed focus after Union Jal Shakti Minister C. R. Paatil chaired the 6th Governing Body meeting of the North Eastern Regional Institute of Water and Land Management (NERIWALM) in Guwahati on May 19, 2026. The meeting reviewed institutional progress, research initiatives and future strategies linked to water management, irrigation and climate-related challenges in the region.

New Infrastructure And Academic Expansion Announced

Before the meeting, the Union Minister virtually inaugurated NERIWALM’s newly constructed International Hostel-cum-Guest House. Officials said the facility is expected to strengthen academic infrastructure and support training and research programmes at the institute.

The Governing Body approved the institute’s Annual Report and Audited Accounts for the financial year 2024–25. Members also reviewed NERIWALM’s training and academic performance. During the year, the institute organised 71 training programmes that benefited more than 2,800 participants. The institute also continued its specialised M.Tech. and Ph.D. programmes in Water Resource Management.

Focus On Irrigation, Climate Studies And Research

The meeting discussed several institutional reforms, including amendments to the Memorandum of Association. A proposal was approved to conduct Achievement Review Committee assessments every three years instead of five years. The Technical Advisory Committee was also proposed to be renamed as the Academic Advisory Committee to strengthen academic governance.

Officials reviewed studies linked to sustainable irrigation development in Assam, Brahmaputra water diversion impacts, traditional water systems and water harvesting planning in North East India. The Governing Body also discussed a proposal to establish an Irrigation Field Laboratory and Demonstration Farm to improve research and field-level technology dissemination.