Strong institutions, digital public infrastructure, and community action should be adopted in arid land development, said the DOLR secretary.

The Secretary of the Department of Land Resources (DOLR) presented today a comprehensive and innovative approach for the development of arid lands. He explained that water scarcity, soil erosion, and climate change are causing severe challenges to both agricultural production and living standards in these areas. Addressing these problems cannot rely solely on traditional water harvesting or seed distribution; instead, robust institutions are needed to ensure continuity and transparency in policy formulation, implementation, and monitoring. The department’s secretary stated that by strengthening the existing institutional framework and enhancing coordination among various government and non‑government agencies, an integrated platform for resource management in arid lands can be established.

Digital public infrastructure was regarded as an integral part of this process. The secretary noted that through geographic information systems (GIS), remote sensing, and mobile‑based data collection, real‑time monitoring of land climate‑resilience, water availability, and crop health can become possible. This digital eco‑system will provide not only policymakers with precise data but also farmers with easy access to weather forecasts, optimal water‑storage measures, and market information.

Community action was highlighted as the final link. The secretary emphasized that no plan can be sustainable without the participation of local communities. He suggested empowering water‑collection committees, farmer groups, and women volunteers at the village level to foster a sense of ownership and responsibility. Thus, a combined model of technological innovation, institutional strengthening, and community participation will prove to be a concrete step toward transforming arid lands into productive and climate‑resilient regions.