NRA, ICAR‑NBS, LPU and DOLR organized a national‑level consultation to strengthen science‑based watershed management.

Prioritizing scientific evidence in the field of watershed management, the NRA (National Research Council), ICAR‑NBSS (Agricultural Research Council – National Groundwater and Surface Water Bureau), LUP (Sustainable Water Management Project) and DOLR (Department of Land and Regional Development) organized a national‑level consultative program. The purpose of this program was to integrate the latest research findings and technologies into policy and practice for the comprehensive management of watersheds.

The consultation was attended by representatives from hydrology, geology, agricultural science, environmental policy and local communities. Key topics included modeling tools for the sustainable use of water resources, management of water flow and storage within the catchment area, and adaptation strategies to the impacts of climate change. During the program, participants discussed the use of sensor networks, data integration platforms and remote sensing technologies for fine‑scale monitoring of watersheds.

Based on the recommendations from this consultation, the government has been instructed to develop a national framework for watershed management. This will include a central portal for data‑driven decision‑making, customized management plans for regional watersheds, and empowerment programmes for community participation. The initiative is expected to improve watershed productivity, water quality and ecological balance, ensuring stable water availability for agriculture, industry and domestic use.