Shillong, Oct 23: Khliehrangnah, nestled in the picturesque West Jaintia Hills, has brought pride to its community and the state by securing the third rank in the Best Village Panchayat category at the prestigious 5th National Water Awards, 2023.
The award ceremony, graced by the presence of President of India, Smt. Droupadi Murmu, and presented by C R Patil, Union Minister of Jal Shakti, was a moment of celebration for the village, which had long embraced the values of sustainability and water conservation.
This momentous achievement didn’t come overnight. It was the result of dedicated efforts by the village’s residents, who were united in their commitment to sustainable water management. Guided by the Government’s initiatives and the support of the Meghalaya Basin Management Agency (MBMA), Khliehrangnah transformed itself into a model of community-led water conservation. The World Bank-funded Community-Led Landscape Management Project (CLLMP) became the backbone of their success, encouraging local participation and instilling a sense of responsibility for the precious natural resource.
As the village’s headman, Lamluti Langstang, stood proud receiving the award alongside Gunanka DB, Executive Director of MBMA, the spirit of the entire village was uplifted.
It was a moment of recognition not just for the leaders, but for every villager who played a part in safeguarding their future. Their collective efforts had culminated in national recognition, shining a spotlight on Khliehrangnah’s dedication to sustainable development.
Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma’s words of praise echoed the joy felt across the state. “This award is a testament to the dedication of the people of Khliehrangnah and their commitment to a sustainable future,” he said, emphasizing that the collaboration between the government and communities had the power to transform ecosystems and ensure responsible resource use.
This, people say, is just the beginning of what Khliehrangnah will continue to accomplish, as their success today paves the way for a greener, more water-rich tomorrow for generations to come.
