SHILLONG : Meghalaya celebrated Rajya Jal Utsav 2026 with a focus on water conservation, environmental protection and community participation at the State Convention Centre in Shillong on Monday.

Organised by the Public Health Engineering Department (PHED), Government of Meghalaya, the event brought together students, educators, government officials, experts, artists and community members to promote awareness about sustainable water management and the importance of protecting natural resources.

The programme was attended by Vivekanand Singh Rathore, IPS, Deputy Inspector General, SHQ BSF Shillong, as the Chief Guest, while Ranjit Das, Scientist/Engineer ‘SF’ at the North Eastern Space Applications Centre (NESAC), attended as the Guest of Honour.

A major highlight of the celebration was the participation of students from educational institutions across Meghalaya, who took part in drawing, story writing and eco-friendly model-making competitions under the theme, “Our Water, Our Future: Community-Led Solutions for Water Security”.

Through their entries, students presented creative ideas and practical solutions relating to water conservation, safe drinking water, climate resilience and community participation in protecting water resources.

The event also featured a panel discussion on the theme “Water: Our Heritage, Our Responsibility, Our Future”, focusing on the conservation of water sources, protection of fragile ecosystems and the importance of traditional knowledge in sustainable water management.

Moderated by Conrad Pariat, the discussion featured E. Shullai, Deputy Conservator of Forest (Social Forestry and Environment); W.K. Kharkongor, Divisional Officer, Soil and Water Conservation; R.S. Nongbri, Chief Engineer, PHED Meghalaya; Amebari Kharkongor, Assistant Professor, Shillong College; and Dr Bankerlang Kharmylliem, Assistant Professor, Shillong Commerce College.

Ranjit Das also delivered a special presentation on the application of space technology in water resource management, highlighting the role of scientific advancements in improving the understanding and management of water resources.

The competitions were evaluated by a panel of judges representing academic institutions, government departments and the private sector.

The celebrations also showcased Meghalaya’s diverse cultural heritage through performances highlighting the connection between traditional practices, nature and environmental conservation.

A Khasi musical performance, the energetic Wangala Dance representing the traditions and agricultural heritage of the Garo Hills, and a traditional Pnar dance formed part of the cultural programme. The performances conveyed messages about protecting the environment and preserving natural resources for future generations.

The programme concluded with the distribution of prizes to the winners of the various competitions in recognition of their creativity, talent and contributions towards promoting water conservation.

Rajya Jal Utsav 2026 reaffirmed the state’s focus on safeguarding water resources and encouraging communities, particularly young people, to take an active role in environmental conservation and sustainable development under the Jal Jeevan Mission.