Meghalaya becomes first Indian state to have water policy

Meghalaya has become the first state in India to approve a draft water policy to address water issues, conservation, and protection of water sources in the state. The draft policy was approved by the State Cabinet in a meeting chaired by state Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma. The purpose of the policy is to recognize water resources as a common pool resource, to provide safe and hygienic water for drinking, domestic and sanitation and livelihood development to all residents of the state. It seeks to protect and improve management of water resources while actively involving the community. It also aims at ensuring protection and conservation of catchment areas of all water sources to prevent degradation of the quantity and quality of water sources.