State of Meghalaya – Meghalaya PCS Free Notes

Meghalaya Human Development Index

December 12, 2017October 25, 2024 by rawan239

Meghalaya Human Development Index

The State of Meghalaya is situated on the north east of India. It extends for about 300 kilometres in length and about 100 kilometres in breadth. It is bounded on the north by Goalpara, KamrupandNowgong districts, on the east by KarbiAnglong and North Cachar Hills districts, all of Assam, and on the south and west by Bangladesh.

Meghalaya is subject to vagaries of the monsoon. The average annual rainfall is about 2600 mm over western Meghalaya, between 2500 to 3000 mm over northern Meghalaya and about 4000 mm over south-eastern Meghalaya. There is a great variation of rainfall over central and southern Meghalaya. Meghalaya Human Development Index

Meghalaya is basically an Agricultural State with about 80% of its total population depending entirely on Agriculture for their livelihood. Rainfall varies from place to place and from altitude to altitude. The amount of rainfall over Cherrapunjee and Mawsynram is quite heavy. During the last two decades, it has ranged from 11,995 mm to 14,189 mm in Cherrapunjee and over Mawsynram it was 10,689 mm to 13,802 mm.

HUMAN DEVELOPMENT INDEX:-

The Human Development Index (HDI) is a comparative measure of quality of life. It mainly comprise three components:-

A long and healthy life: Life expectancy at birth.
Education index: Mean years of schooling and Expected years of schooling.
A decent standard of living: GNI per capita (PPP US$)for countries worldwide. It is a standard means of measuring well-being, especially child welfare.
It is used to distinguish whether the country is a developed, a developing or an under-developed country, and also to measure the impact of economic policies on quality of life.

According to Global Hunger Index – 2017, only 9.6 per cent of our children, between 6 and 23 months of age, receive adequate diet and 97 million children in India are underweight! Thus Indian economy is going to face a gigantic problem of unhealthy and unskilled work-force in the future, which will further degrade our resources into liabilities. Ironically, according to a study, two-thirds of food to feed 600 million poor Indians is lost as hungry millions do not have enough purchasing power to buy the same. Now, government itself can buy it from farmers with minimum support price (MSP). It will certainly stop the incidence of farmers’ suicides. The excess food can then be distributed to students in addition to the midday meal. This will attract more students to school and address the issues like illiteracy, school dropout, child labour, hunger and malnutrition.

In the Human Development Index (HDI) of India for the year 2011, Meghalaya is ranked 26th with 0.585(Medium) HDI value.

Measures of HDI indicators for Meghalaya:-

Mizoram per capita income in 2009-10:- Rs 35,323,
Literacy according 2011 census :-84% (24^th rank),the male literacy rate is 77.2 per cent and the female literacy rate is 73.8 per cent. In 2011-12, the state had a total of 43,102 teachers in lower primary & upper primary schools, 4,621 teachers in secondary schools and 526 teachers in higher secondary schools.
Education index of Meghalaya :- 0.512,(28^th rank).

Meghalaya, among the eight North Eastern States, is ranked 7th, only above Assam which has 0.534 HDI value in 2011.
Meghalaya’s first HDI report “Meghalaya Human Development Report 2008” was published in 2009, and has been the sole report since to indicate the health of the State to the world.The report clearly indicated that the rate of development in Meghalaya is slower than in most of the state and hence, been lagging behind while many states have improved their ranking.
The report highlighted that the health sector is poor and East Khasi Hills tops in HDI and GDI among the districts followed by West Garo Hills.
The report seemed to highlight Meghalaya being significantly behind in almost all sectors in comparison all other states while it failed to furnish full details, which could make it possible to make better comparisons.
Even then, a new report is yet to be furnished.

State-wise HDI score and rank 1992-93 to 2005-06 for north east states:-

	HDI	Rank	HDI	Rank
States	1992-93	1992-93	2005-06	2005-06
Arunachal Pradesh	0.130	8	0.082	8
Assam	0.450	2	0.472	2
Manipur	0.372	3	0.440	4
Meghalaya	0.176	7	0.208	7
Mizoram	0.657	1	0.622	1
Nagaland	0.332	4	0.292	6
Sikkim	0.327	5	0.462	2
Tripura	0.269	6	0.439	5

Meghalaya Food Security

December 12, 2017October 14, 2024 by rawan239

Meghalaya Food Security

Tucked away in the hills of eastern sub-Himalayas is Meghalaya, one of the most beautiful State in the country. Nature has blessed her with abundant rainfall, sun-shine, virgin forests, high plateaus, tumbling waterfalls, crystal clear rivers, meandering streamlets etc.

Emergence of Meghalaya as an Autonomous State on 2nd April 1970 and as a full-fledged State on 21st January 1972 marked the beginning of a new era of the geo-political history of North Eastern India.

The State of Meghalaya is situated on the north east of India. It extends for about 300 kilometres in length and about 100 kilometres in breadth. It is bounded on the north by Goalpara, Kamrup and Nowgong districts, on the east by KarbiAnglong and North Cachar Hills districts, all of Assam, and on the south and west by Bangladesh. Meghalaya Food Security

Meghalaya is subject to vagaries of the monsoon.The average annual rainfall is about 2600 mm over western Meghalaya, between 2500 to 3000 mm over northern Meghalaya and about 4000 mm over south-eastern Meghalaya. There is a great variation of rainfall over central and southern Meghalaya.

Meghalaya is basically an Agricultural State with about 80% of its total population depending entirely on Agriculture for their livelihood.Rainfall varies from place to place and from altitude to altitude. The amount of rainfall over Cherrapunjee and Mawsynram is quite heavy. During the last two decades, it has ranged from 11,995 mm to 14,189 mm in Cherrapunjee and over Mawsynram it was 10,689 mm to 13,802 mm.

The total cropped area in the State has increased by about 42 per cent during the last twenty-five years. Food grain production sector covers an area of over 60 per cent of the total crop area. Besides the major food crops of Rice and Maize, the State is also renowned for its Horticultural crops like Orange, Lemon, Pineapple, Guava, Litchi, Banana, Jack Fruits and Temperate fruits such as Plum, Pear, Peach etc.Potato, Ginger, Turmeric, Black Pepper, Areca nut, Tezpatta, Betelvine, Short-staple cotton, Jute, Mesta, Mustard and Rapseed etc. are some of the important cash crops in the State.

Meghalaya has ranked among the known BIMARU states in the malnutrition index for 2016. According to a report titled ‘Bridging the gap: Tapping the agriculture potential for optimum nutrition’ prepared jointly by ASSOCHAM and EY, seven Indian states which rank high on the malnutrition index are Uttar Pradesh (50.4 per cent) followed by Bihar (49.4 per cent), Jharkhand (47.4 per cent), Chhattisgarh (43 per cent), Meghalaya (42.9 per cent), Gujarat (41.6 per cent) and Madhya Pradesh (41.5 per cent). Even among the northeastern states, Meghalaya stood high as far as child undernourishment is concerned. According to National Family Health Survey-4 (2015-16), as much as 43.8% of children in Meghalaya have stunted growth, which is also related to the maternal-undernutrition, and 29% are underweight. Low nutritional outcomes can in turn lead to slower development and susceptibility to illness, the effects of which can hamper them throughout their lives, hindering and limiting their potential for growth. While at a glance the situation seems dismal at best, there are glimmers of hope in the offing.

Consistent indications of food shortage or mismanagement of food services emerge especially in Songsak Block, East Garo Hills.

To overcome these difficulties in the state; the state government has taken various steps and launched various schemes and programmes like:-

National Food Security Act:- The state government launched the Food Security Act (FSA) across the State in 2015 under National Food Security Act, 2013. Under the programme, 77.79 per cent rural population and 50.87 per cent urban population will be covered based on the 2011 socio-economic census. under the programme, focus will be given to pregnant mothers and infants from 0-6 years for supplementing their nutritional requirement as per the mandate of the Act.Under NFSA, 2013, a total of 4.22 lakh has been identified as priority households in the State of Meghalaya and 72, 460 household in West Garo Hills district out of which 29,476 is in Tura Sardar Division and 41,984 in Dadenggre Civil Sub-Division.

According to the Act, every person belonging to priority households is entitled to receive 5 kg of food grains per person per month at subsidized prices not exceeding Rs. 3.00 per kg for rice, Rs. 2.00 per kg for wheat and coarse cereals for Rs. 1 per kg.

Integrated Child Development Services:-

It is centrally sponsored scheme and was launched in 1975. ICDS is a unique early childhood development programme aimed at addressing the health, nutrition and development needs of young children, pregnant and nursing mothers. In Meghalaya the first project was launched on an experimental basis at SongsakC&RD Block, East Garo Hills District in the same year. Since then, the Department has come a long way in expanding the ICDS projects to the 39 Community and Rural Development Blocks and 2 Urban ICDS Projects at Shillong and Tura through a network of 5896 Anganwadi Centre.

The scheme has been re-launched in Mission Mode during 2012 as the restructured and strengthened ICDS programme with the vision to ensure holistic physical, psychosocial, cognitive and emotional development of young children under 6 years of age in a nurturing, protective, child friendly and gender sensitive family and community.

The components and core package of services under ICDS are: –

Early Childhood Care, Education & Development (ECCED)
Care & Nutrition Counselling
Health Services
Community Mobilization, Awareness, Advocacy and IEC

The Supplementary Nutrition Programme under ICDS has two components:

Morning snacks & hot cooked meals served daily at the AWC to all children between 3-6 years attending Preschool at AWC for 25 days in a month.
Take Home Ration in the form of RTE Energy Dense Food is given for children 6 months to 3 years and pregnant/lactating mothers.

SCHEMES UNDER ICDS:-

A. Kishori Shakti Yojana – KSY (Adolescent Girls Scheme):-It aims at improving the nutritional health status of the adolescent girls by promoting awareness of health, hygiene, nutritional and family care. The activities also link with learning life skill and steps to become productive member. Under the scheme, unmarried BPL and school drop outs adolescent Girls in the age group 11-18 years are selected and attached to the local Anganwadi Centres for monthly sitting of learning and training activities.This scheme is fully state funded scheme.

Rajiv Gandhi Scheme for Empowerment of Adolescent Girls (RGSEAG)-SABLA:- The objective of the scheme is to:

Enable self-development and empowerment of Adolescent Girls
Improve their Nutrition and Health Status
Spread awareness among them about Health, Hygiene, Nutrition, Adolescent

Reproductive and Sexual Health (ARSH) and Family and Childcare

Upgrade their Home-based Skills, Life Skills and Vocational Skills
Mainstream out of School Adolescent Girls into Formal/ Non Formal-Education and
Inform and guide them about existing public services, such as PHC, CHC, Post

Office, Bank, Police Station etc.

C. Indira Gandhi MatritavaSehyogYojana (IGMSY) – Conditional Maternity Benefit (CMB) Scheme:-It is a centrally sponsored scheme implemented in the State as a pilot project in 1 (one) District i.e. in East Garo Hills, Williamnagar with 100% financial assistance from the Govt. ofIndia. Under this scheme, pregnant and nursing mothers are provided maternity benefits. During 2013-14, the Govt. of India, to bring the amount of maternity benefit at par with the provisions of National Food Security Act, 2013, enhanced the rate from Rs.4000/- to Rs.6000.

Further, the Govt. of India introduced the financial sharing pattern during 2015-16 i.e. 90:10.

3. SampoornaGrameenRozgarYojana (SGRY):-

The primary objective of the Scheme is to provide additional wage employment in all rural areas and thereby provide food security and improve nutritional levels. The secondary objective is the creation of a durable community, social and economic assets and infrastructural development in rural areas.

But even after decades of government efforts have not yielded the desired result in terms of social security indicators and nutrition status in the state. The government can take the following steps to further improve these indicators.

Way forward:-

A community headman in ShillongUrban, also recommended a change in the food items to include more bengal gram, kidney beans, eggs and other high nutrition components. These should be considered by the government.
There were concerns too about instances of low and irregular supplies.
A lady supervisor from East Garo Hills, a functionary of the Department of Social Welfare, lamented the lack of locally grown, organically produced fruit and vegetables on the menu, something that would get children used to eating high-quality produce.
Provide a reliable source of income to local cultivators to boottheir income.
Not just the nutrition component but the ICDS scheme itself, with its focus on universalisation and strengthening of its programmes through community involvement, geared towards the welfare of vulnerable sections of the population, can benefit from new localised solutions.
At the same time, it must be remembered that ICDS is not just about getting a free meal – it’s about ensuring a more holistic development, be that nutritional, educational or in terms of medical help, for the generations to come.

Meghalaya Schemes & Projects

October 28, 2017October 6, 2024 by rawan239

Meghalaya Schemes & Projects

Megha Health Insurance Scheme (MHIS):

The Megha Health Insurance Scheme (MHIS) is being implemented across the state of Meghalaya by the government. The objective of the scheme is to provide financial aid to all the citizens of the state at the time of hospitalization. The policy period of insurance is only one year but it can be renewed by making payment of the insurance premium.

The state government is providing a universal health insurance to all citizens of the State under Megha Health Insurance Scheme (MHIS). All the citizens can enroll in the scheme but they have to pay some nominal amount as the enrollment fee to avail the scheme benefits. This scheme is being implemented through New India Assurance Company Ltd.

The state government under the phase 3 of Megha Health Insurance Scheme has been increased to Rs. 2,80,000 for up to 5 members of the family on floater basis. The maximum one time hospitalization for critical care has also been increased to Rs 250000 from Rs 170000. The enrollment fee for MHIS phase 3 is Rs. 50 Rupees and does not have any age limit. The smart cards issued under the scheme can be used to avail free and cashless treatment at all government hospitals and empaneled private health institutions.

New Shillong Township :

This scheme is aimed at taking up infrastructure development works at New Shillong Township. To accommodate the future population of Shillong, proposal for setting up of a new township designed for 2,00,000 population was conceived by the department. An area of 2030 hectares has been identified to the East of the Shillong city. It is proposed to develop the township as a joint venture involving both Government and Private initiative. Government intervention is restricted to acquiring and developing 500 hectares of land while in the remaining areas only the bulk infrastructure will be laid by the Government. As of date,370.26 hectares of land has already been acquired. Detailed Project Report (D.P.R.) of the different sectors like road, power, water supply, sewerage and drainage etc. has been prepared and ready for implementation.

Environmental Improvement Of Urban Slum (E.I.U.S.) :

The Environmental Improvement of Urban slums scheme which is a part of the 20 Point Programme is being implemented in the Slum areas of Shillong, Tura, Jowai, Baghmara, Williamnagar and Nongstoin. The scheme has played a significant and satisfying role in the improvement of slum areas in the above towns. Basic amenities like drains, footpaths, sanitation facilities, drinking water, water supply etc. have been provided under the scheme. The Scheme is being implemented by the Office of the Executive Engineer, Urban Affairs in the respective towns.

Housing For All (Urban) Mission :

The scheme was launched on 25th June 2015 with an objective to provide rehabilitation of slum dwellers with participation of private developers using land as a source, to promote affordable housing for weaker section through credit linked subsidy, to provide affordable housing in partnership with public and private sectors and to provide subsidy for beneficiary-led individual house construction. 10 statutory towns in the State have been included under the programme which include as follows- Shillong Municpal Board(S.M.B.), Shillong Cantonment Board(C.B.), Shillong Urban Agglomeration Area (only Census Towns excluding S.M.B. area),Tura, Jowai, Baghmara, Williamnagar, Resubelpara, Mairang, Nongstoin ,Nongpoh. Currently Demand Survey is being carried out in all the topwns to assess the housing demand and requirement.

Pradhan Mantri Kaushal Vikas Yojana (PMKVY):

Pradhan Mantri Kaushal Vikas Yojana (PMKVY) is a flagship scheme of Narendra Modi government under which skill development training is provided to youth in different verticals. The government is providing skill training in different industry verticals through authorized training centers across the country.

As per 23rd March 2017, there are a total of 2150 PMKVY training centers operating across the country for providing skill training to youth. These training centers are operated by different authorized training partners of PM Kaushal Vikas Yojana

44 Lakh Homes Under Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana:

Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana – Gramin targets for 2017 has been revised by the central government after the announcement made by PM Narendra Modi in his 31st December Speech. The government has increased the overall number of housing units to be constructed by 1 Crore under the PMAY-G.

The central government has set a target of building 44 Lakh homes under Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana – Gramin by the end of December 2017. According to the statistics released by Ministry of Rural Development, about 22 Lakh houses have been constructed in rural areas under PMAY-G till 28th January. The ministry will complete the construction of 1 Crore 33 Lakh houses in three years from 2016-17 to 2018-19 which also includes 33 Lakh homes under previous Indira Awas Yojana.

List of Airports Under UDAN Scheme (Udey Desh Ka Aam Nagrik):

UDAN Scheme, the regional air connectivity scheme recently launched by the central government to make the air travel cheaper has started to see the sun of the day. According to industry chamber FICCI, about 44 airports across the country has the potential to execute operations under the scheme.

The list of 44 out of 414 underserved and unserved airports has been prepared based upon geographical, operational and commercial parameters which has potential to be part of regional connectivity scheme UDAN. The report also mentions the list of around 370 potential destinations for the shortlisted airports, including metros, state capitals and important commercial, industrial and tourism centers. Shillong and Tura of Meghalaya is proposed for the Airport under this scheme.

Swachh Bharat Mission :-

This is a newly launched programme of Ministry of Urban Development which was launched on 2nd October 2014 with a target date to achieve all objectives by the 2nd October, 2019. The Mission was also formally launched in the State of Meghalaya on the 2nd October, 2014. 10 statutory towns in the State have been included under the programme which include as follows- Shillong Municpal Board(S.M.B.), Shillong Cantonment Board(C.B.), Shillong Urban Agglomeration Area (only Census Towns excluding S.M.B. area),Tura, Jowai, Baghmara, Williamnagar, Resubelpara, Mairang, Nongstoin ,Nongpoh. The Mission is being implemented by the Municipal Boards in Municipal Towns and the respective Deputy Commissioner in Non-Municipal Towns.

Scheduled Tribe of Meghalaya

January 15, 2018October 5, 2024 by rawan239

Scheduled Tribe of Meghalaya

Based on 2011 Census total popultaion of India is 121.08 Crore out of which ST population is 10.45 Crore (8.6%) .
The tribal communities in India are enormously diverse and heterogeneous. There are wide ranging diversities among them in respect of languages spoken, size of population and mode of livelihood.
The number of communities that find their place in the list of the Schedule of the Indian constitution is reflective of this diversity. The Government of India, in its Draft National Tribal Policy, 2006 records 698 Scheduled Tribes in India.
As per the Census of India 2011, the number of individual groups notified as Scheduled Tribes is 705.
Tribes of Meghalaya represent the inhabitants of Meghalaya who reside in the foothills as well as within the mountain ranges of Garo, Khasi and Jaintia.
The origin of these tribes can be traced from the Tibeto-Burman race and Proto Austroloid Monkhmer race. While the Garos can be traced as the descendents of Tibeto-Burman race, the Khasis and the Jaintias are claimed to have belonged to the Proto Austroloid Monkhmer race.
Along with this there are a number of tribes like the Bhois, Khynriams and the Wars who reside in the northern, southern and central parts of Meghalaya.
Largely the tribal groups follow Christianity though the state follows all the 3 religions namely Hinduism, Buddhism as well as Christianity.
Tribes of Meghalaya are distinctly marked for their social structure. The traditional dress of Meghalaya is known as ‘Jymphong’ which is often worn during the festivals and ceremonies.
The tribal society of Meghalaya primarily depends on subsistence agriculture.

In According to 2011 Census and Ministry of Tribal Affiars Reports the Tribal Polpulation of Meghalaya

Total Population of Meghalaya	29,66,889
Total Population of ST in Meghalaya	25,55,861
Percentage of ST population on Meghalaya	86.1
% STs in the State to total ST population in India	2.4
Sex Ratio in STs (Gender Composition of Scheduled Tribe Population)	1013
Literacy Rates of ST Population in State	74.4%

Total Scheduled Tribes in Meghalaya that included in Constiturional List of Scheduled tribe by Government of India through President order with Name like

Chakma
Dimasa, Kachari
Garo
Hajong
Hmar
Khasi, Jaintia, Synteng, Pnar, War,
Bhoi, Lyngngam
Any Kuki tribes, including:-
1. Biate, Biete
2. Changsan
3. Chongloi
4. Doungel
5. Gamalhou
6. Gangte
7. Guite
8. Hanneng
9. Haokip, Haupit
10. Haolai
11. Hengna
12. Hongsungh
13. Hrangkhwal, Rangkhol
14. Jongbe
15. Khawchung
16. Khawathlang, Khothalong
17. Khelma
18. Kholhou
19. Kipgen
20. Kuki
21. Lengthang
22. Lhangum
23. Lhoujem
24. Lhouvun
25. Lupheng
26. Mangjel
27. Misao
28. Riang
29. Sairhem
30. Selnam
31. Singson
32. Sitlhou
33. Sukte
34. Thado
35. Thangngeu
36. Uibuh
37. Vaiphei
Lakher
Man (Tai Speaking)
Any Mizo (Lushai) tribes
Mikir
Any Naga tribes
Pawi
Synteng
Boro Kacharis
Koch
Raba, Rava

State List of the Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Groups

PVTGs, currently including 75 tribal groups, have been identified as such on the basis of the following criteria:

forest-dependent livelihoods,
pre-agricultural level of existence,
stagnant or declining population,
low literacy rates
a subsistence-based economy.

As currently there is no tribal group included in this list.

Sixth Scheduled of Consstitution which govern these tribes

The original Sixth Schedule areas created in 1952 underwent a drastic reorganization in 1971; some areas were put under newly created States such as Mizoram and Meghalaya which were carved out of the erstwhile Assam State. The Sixth Schedule (Article 244 (2) and 275 (1)) provides for administration of Tribal Areas in the States of Assam, Meghalaya, Tripura and Mizoram through Autonomous District and Regional Councils endowed with legislative, judicial, and executive powers.

The Sixth Schedule under Article 244 (2) provides for the creation of Autonomous District Councils (ADC) in an Autonomous District and Regional Councils for autonomous regions. These Councils have legislative powers on matters relating to:

allotment, occupation, or the setting apart of land, other than reserved forests, for the purpose of agricultural or grazing or for residential or other non-agricultural purposes or for any other purpose likely to promote the interests of the inhabitants of any village or town (Provided that nothing in such laws shall prevent the compulsory acquisition of any land, whether occupied or unoccupied for public purpose)
management of any forest not being a Reserved Forest
use of any canal or water course for purpose of agriculture
regulation of the practice of jhum or any other form of shifting cultivation
establishment of village or town committees or Councils and their powers
any other matter relating to village or town administration, including village and town police, public health and sanitation
appointment of succession of chiefs or headmen
inheritance of property
marriage and divorce
social custom
The entire State of Meghalaya except Shillong area is covered under the provisions of the Sixth Schedule of the Constitution. Meghalaya has three Autonomous District Councils under the Sixth Schedule of the Constitution. These are –

Khasi Hills Autonomous District Council (KHADC),
Garo Hills Autonomous District Council (GHADC),
and the Jaintia Hills Autonomous District Council (JHADC).

Major Tribal Group of Meghalaya

Garo Tribe of Meghalaya:

The Garos are mainly distributed over the Kamrup, Goalpara and Karbi Anglong districts of Assam, Garo Hills and few in Khasi Hills in Meghalaya and Dimapur (Nagaland State), substantial numbers, about 200,000 are found in greater Mymens ingh ( Tangail, Jamalpur, Sherpore, Netrakona, Mymensingh) and capital Dhaka, Gazipur, Sirajgonj, Rangpur, Sunamganj, Sylhet, Moulovibazar districts of Bangladesh. It is estimated that total Garo population in India and Bangladesh together is about 1 million.
They originally belong to the Bodo family from the Tibetan-Burmese race; also reside in the plains of Assam and Bangladesh.
The Garo language belongs to the Bodo–Garo branch of the Tibeto-Burman language family.
The Garos are one of the few remaining matrilineal societies in the world. The individuals take their clan titles from their mothers. Traditionally, the youngest daughter (nokmechik) inherits the property from her mother. Sons leave the parents’ house at puberty, and are trained in the village bachelor dormitory (nokpante). After getting married, the man lives in his wife’s house. Garos are only a matrilinear society, but not matriarchal. While the property is owned by women, the men govern the society and domestic affairs and manage the property. This provides security to Garo women.
Like other tribes in Meghalaya these tribes too follow maternal lineage in case of inheritance of property and enjoy all kind of vegetarian well as non-vegetarian food in case of regional delicacies.
The Garos rely on nature, their profession is hunting and warrior known as They practice jhum cultivation which is the most common agricultural tradition.
The most popular food of the Garo tribes is rice with capsicum, onion and salt.
Garo literature mainly transferred from generation to generation and one place to another orally. Most of the oral tradition now become the element of Garo literature
Greatest among Garo festivals is the Wangala, usually celebrated in October or November, is thanksgiving after harvest in which Saljong, the god who provides mankind with Nature’s bounties and ensures their prosperity, is honor.

Khasi Tribe of Meghalaya:

According to the 2011 Census of India, over 1.72 million Khasi lived in Meghalaya in the districts of East Khasi Hills, West Khasi Hills, South West Khasi Hills, Ri-Bhoi, West Jaintia Hills and East Jaintia Hills. In Assam, their population reached 35,000.
They are the largest tribal group of North eastern region. Khasis are known with a number of names in different parts of Meghalaya.
The Khasi people of the War sub-tribe designed and built the famous living root bridgesof the Cherrapunji
As a religion they follow Christianity (85%), Ka Niam Khasi (10%), Hinduism (3%), and Islam (2%)
The Khasis are, for the most part, Their social organisation does not favour other forms of marriage; therefore, deviation from this norm is quite rare. Young men and women are permitted considerable freedom in the choice of mates. Potential marriage partners are likely to have been acquainted before betrothal.
The traditional political structure of the Khasi community was democratic in nature. The Khasis consisted of ‘native states’ which would congregate during dorbars or sessions and come to a decision regarding any dispute or problems that would arise in the community much like the Panchayati Raj prevalent in most Indian States

Jaintia Tribe of Meghalaya:

Jaintias too reside in the foot hills of Jaintia Hills from where they collect their name.
These are a type of Khasi tribe which further includes Bhoi in the northern Meghalaya; Khynriam in the central Meghalaya; Pnar of the Jaintia hills; War in the southern Meghalaya.
Achiks are another group of Garo tribes who comprise one third of Meghalaya’s tribal community.

Geographical location of Meghalaya

January 15, 2018October 4, 2024 by rawan239

Geographical location of Meghalaya

The state of Meghalaya (the abode of clouds) is geographically known as the “Meghalaya Plateau” or the “Shillong Plateau”. The area is made of the oldest rock-formations. Meghalaya consists of the Garo, Khasi and Jaintia hills along with their outliers formed by the Assam ranges. It is the detached north-eastern extension of the Peninsular India. Part of it lies buried under the alluvium deposited by the Ganga-Brahmaputra system of rivers. This gap is known as Malda gap (between Raj Mahal hills/Chhota Nagpur and the Shillong Plateau).

Meghalaya Plateau’s elevation varies between 150 meters to 1961 meters above sea level. The Plateau is highly dissected and has irregular terrain in the western and northern side. The southern side is marked by a continuous escarpment with steep slopes. The broken hills and ranges in the north are not of a well defined boundary.

The western part of the plateau or the Garo hills has an elevation of 600m above sea level. The most important relief feature of this part of the plateau is the Tura range with its highest point at Nokrek 1515 meters above sea level. The central and the eastern part of the plateau or the Khasi and the Jaintia hills district play prominent senile topography. This part of the plateau is characterised by the presence of many peneplained surfaces, flat-topped hills and numerous river valleys. The central upland zone is the most important relief feature of the area and covers more than one-third of the area, east of the Garo hills. The highest point of this part of this plateau and that of the entire state is the Shillong peak whose elevation is about 1965m above sea level. Geographical location of Meghalaya

In the Garo hills, the important rivers of the northern system from west to east are the Kalu, Ringgi, Chagua, Ajagar, Didram, Krishnai and Dudnai. Of these only the Krishnai and Kalu are navigable. The important rivers of the southern system are Daring, Sanda, Bandra, Bhogai, Dareng and Simsang. Simsang is the largest river in the Garo hills and navigable only for about 30 Km. other navigable rivers are Nitai and the Bhupai.

In the central and eastern section of the plateau the important northward flowing rivers are Umkhri, Digaru and Umiam and the south-flowing rivers are Kynchiang (Jadukata), Mawpa, Umiew or Barapani, Myngot and Myntdu.

Animal husbandry in Meghalaya

January 15, 2018September 25, 2024 by rawan239

Animal husbandry in Meghalaya

Livestock including Poultry is an integral part of agriculture and contributes significantly to rural economy. While agriculture contributes about 30% of the total output of GDP, livestock including poultry constitutes about 25% of the total agricultural output. Rearing of livestock and poultry is an age old practice in the country with no exception to the State of Meghalaya. Livestock production has a much larger contribution to manpower employment than agriculture, while eggs, milk and meat production help in stepping up crop production through the availability of cash to the livestock farmer which is utilised for purchase of seed, manure and fertilizers for agricultural operation. Establishment of dairy, poultry, goat, pig farms help solve unemployment problems and provide valuable protein, vitamin and mineral rich materials like eggs, milk and meat. Organic manure from livestock and poultry enrich the soil for higher production of crop, vegetable and flower as well as horticultural produce.

In the State of Meghalaya, due to peculiar topography, varying climatic situation and socio-economic condition, the agriculture operation constitute to only about 10% of the total land under cultivation, thereby livestock and poultry provide the alternative avocation to the farmers for a subsidiary living.

Though the present output of livestock production in the State has been increasing at higher proportion to the growth of human population, the overall availability situation is not encouraging to the extent that as against the requirement of 220 gm of milk per person per day, only 75 gm is now available in the State. Similarly, availability of eggs per person per year is only 35 as against the requirement of 150. Therefore greater efforts are necessary to close the gap between demand and supply. Animal husbandry in Meghalaya

The department of Animal husbandry & Veterinary has taken up various measures to bring about a noticeable improvement in production, processing and marketing of livestock and livestock products. One such measure is to establish more farms with quality germplasm for making availability to farmers.

The activities of the Department were mainly centred round the broad objectives of :

Providing Health coverage to the Livestock and poultry population from the ravages of diseases through treatment and preventive vaccination.
Introducing improved breeding techniques for upgrading the Local Stock.
Ensuring better Animal Husbandry practices through scientific adoption and approach of Extension and Research.
Building up of adequate technical and professional man-power through Education and Training.
Encouraging setting up of livestock and poultry industries.

Infrastructure of the Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Department

Veterinary Hospital – 4

Veterinary Dispensaries – 113

Veterinary Aid Centres – 50

Mobile Veterinary Dispensaries – 15

Vigilance Unit – 7

Stockman Centres – 34

Key Village Centres – 15

Check Posts – 4

Disease Diagnostic Laboratories – 8

Cattle farm – 4

Buffalo Farm – 1

Poultry farm – 13

Pig farm – 13

During the last 40 years, the Department of Animal Husbandry and Veterinary has initiated various developmental programmes on different aspects of Livestock and Poultry sector for the interest of the State in general and the farmers in particular are as follows:

Cattle & Buffalo Development
Fodder Development
Poultry Development
Piggery Development
Sheep, Goat & Rabbit Development
Animal Health & Veterinary Services
Veterinary Research
Education and Training
Dairy Development
Subsidy Schemes
CSS Schemes

Cattle and buffalo development

This is an integrated programme of cattle & buffalo development which includes breeding, feeding and management practices to boost up milk production as well as to develop a suitable marketing network for milk and other milk products. There are four Cattle Farm and one Buffalo Farm in the state of Meghalaya. The department is also having 2 Intensive Cattle Development Project (ICDP) Centre for production of quality semen by establishing Liquid Nitrogen Plant. One at Upper Shillong and one at Tura. Artificial Insemination programmes in cattle are carried out in the field through 40 Stockman Centres and Key Village Centres spread throughout the State. The Objective is to upgrade the local cows and to augment milk production in the State.

Piggery development

Since the demand of pork in the State of Meghalaya is very high, the Government have established 13 Pig Farms in the State with the ultimate aim to augment production of pork. Pigs from these farm are being distribute to the farmers for further multiplication and up gradation of local stock The Pig farms are (i)Regional Pig Breeding Farm, Kyrdemkulai, (ii) Pig Farm, Mawryngkneng (iii) Pig Farm, Pynursla, (iv) Pig Farm, Thadlaskein (v) Pig Farm, Mairang (vi) Pig Farm, Nongstoin (vii) Pig Farm, Gindo(Waram Songma) (viii) Pig Farm, Dalu (ix) Pig Farm, Rongjeng (x) Pig Farm, Baghmara (xi) Pig Farm Laitryngew (xii) Pig Farm Nongkasen and ((xiii) Pig Farm Nongpiur.

Dairy development

The objective of the scheme is to supply wholesome milk to the consumers whereby milk is being procured from producers and distributed to the public after pastuerisation. The procurement and distribution has been given to their respective Agency/Society. The Department has got 3 Dairy Plants at Shillong, Jowai and Tura, and 2 Milk Chilling Plants, one each at Nongstoin and Resubelpara.

Schedule Tribe of Meghalaya

October 22, 2017September 24, 2024 by rawan239

Schedule Tribe of Meghalaya

Based on 2011 Census total popultaion of India is 121.08 Crore out of which ST population is 10.45 Crore (8.6%) .
The tribal communities in India are enormously diverse and heterogeneous. There are wide ranging diversities among them in respect of languages spoken, size of population and mode of livelihood.
The number of communities that find their place in the list of the Schedule of the Indian constitution is reflective of this diversity. The Government of India, in its Draft National Tribal Policy, 2006 records 698 Scheduled Tribes in India.
As per the Census of India 2011, the number of individual groups notified as Scheduled Tribes is 705.
Schedule Tribe of Meghalaya represent the inhabitants of Meghalaya who reside in the foothills as well as within the mountain ranges of Garo, Khasi and Jaintia.
The origin of these tribes can be traced from the Tibeto-Burman race and Proto Austroloid Monkhmer race. While the Garos can be traced as the descendents of Tibeto-Burman race, the Khasis and the Jaintias are claimed to have belonged to the Proto Austroloid Monkhmer race.
Along with this there are a number of tribes like the Bhois, Khynriams and the Wars who reside in the northern, southern and central parts of Meghalaya.
Largely the tribal groups follow Christianity though the state follows all the 3 religions namely Hinduism, Buddhism as well as Christianity.
Schedule Tribe of Meghalaya are distinctly marked for their social structure. The traditional dress of Meghalaya is known as ‘Jymphong’ which is often worn during the festivals and ceremonies.
The tribal society of Meghalaya primarily depends on subsistence agriculture.

In According to 2011 Census and Ministry of Tribal Affiars Reports the Tribal Polpulation of Meghalaya

Total Population of Meghalaya	29,66,889
Total Population of ST in Meghalaya	25,55,861
Percentage of ST population on Meghalaya	86.1
% STs in the State to total ST population in India	2.4
Sex Ratio in STs (Gender Composition of Scheduled Tribe Population)	1013
Literacy Rates of ST Population in State	74.4%

Total Schedule Tribe of Meghalaya that included in Constiturional List of Scheduled tribe by Government of India through President order with Name like

Chakma
Dimasa, Kachari
Garo
Hajong
Hmar
Khasi, Jaintia, Synteng, Pnar, War,
Bhoi, Lyngngam
Any Kuki tribes, including:-
1. Biate, Biete
2. Changsan
3. Chongloi
4. Doungel
5. Gamalhou
6. Gangte
7. Guite
8. Hanneng
9. Haokip, Haupit
10. Haolai
11. Hengna
12. Hongsungh
13. Hrangkhwal, Rangkhol
14. Jongbe
15. Khawchung
16. Khawathlang, Khothalong
17. Khelma
18. Kholhou
19. Kipgen
20. Kuki
21. Lengthang
22. Lhangum
23. Lhoujem
24. Lhouvun
25. Lupheng
26. Mangjel
27. Misao
28. Riang
29. Sairhem
30. Selnam
31. Singson
32. Sitlhou
33. Sukte
34. Thado
35. Thangngeu
36. Uibuh
37. Vaiphei
Lakher
Man (Tai Speaking)
Any Mizo (Lushai) tribes
Mikir
Any Naga tribes
Pawi
Synteng
Boro Kacharis
Koch
Raba, Rava

State List of the Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Groups

PVTGs, currently including 75 tribal groups, have been identified as such on the basis of the following criteria:

forest-dependent livelihoods,
pre-agricultural level of existence,
stagnant or declining population,
low literacy rates
a subsistence-based economy.

As currently there is no tribal group included in this list.

Sixth Scheduled of Consstitution which govern these tribes

allotment, occupation, or the setting apart of land, other than reserved forests, for the purpose of agricultural or grazing or for residential or other non-agricultural purposes or for any other purpose likely to promote the interests of the inhabitants of any village or town (Provided that nothing in such laws shall prevent the compulsory acquisition of any land, whether occupied or unoccupied for public purpose)
management of any forest not being a Reserved Forest
use of any canal or water course for purpose of agriculture
regulation of the practice of jhum or any other form of shifting cultivation
establishment of village or town committees or Councils and their powers
any other matter relating to village or town administration, including village and town police, public health and sanitation
appointment of succession of chiefs or headmen
inheritance of property
marriage and divorce
social custom
The entire State of Meghalaya except Shillong area is covered under the provisions of the Sixth Schedule of the Constitution. Meghalaya has three Autonomous District Councils under the Sixth Schedule of the Constitution. These are –

Khasi Hills Autonomous District Council (KHADC),
Garo Hills Autonomous District Council (GHADC),
and the Jaintia Hills Autonomous District Council (JHADC).

Major Tribal Group of Meghalaya

Garo Schedule Tribe of Meghalaya:

The Garos are mainly distributed over the Kamrup, Goalpara and Karbi Anglong districts of Assam, Garo Hills and few in Khasi Hills in Meghalaya and Dimapur (Nagaland State), substantial numbers, about 200,000 are found in greater Mymens ingh ( Tangail, Jamalpur, Sherpore, Netrakona, Mymensingh) and capital Dhaka, Gazipur, Sirajgonj, Rangpur, Sunamganj, Sylhet, Moulovibazar districts of Bangladesh. It is estimated that total Garo population in India and Bangladesh together is about 1 million.
They originally belong to the Bodo family from the Tibetan-Burmese race; also reside in the plains of Assam and Bangladesh.
The Garo language belongs to the Bodo–Garo branch of the Tibeto-Burman language family.
The Garos are one of the few remaining matrilineal societies in the world. The individuals take their clan titles from their mothers. Traditionally, the youngest daughter (nokmechik) inherits the property from her mother. Sons leave the parents’ house at puberty, and are trained in the village bachelor dormitory (nokpante). After getting married, the man lives in his wife’s house. Garos are only a matrilinear society, but not matriarchal. While the property is owned by women, the men govern the society and domestic affairs and manage the property. This provides security to Garo women.
Like other tribes in Meghalaya these tribes too follow maternal lineage in case of inheritance of property and enjoy all kind of vegetarian well as non-vegetarian food in case of regional delicacies.
The Garos rely on nature, their profession is hunting and warrior known as They practice jhum cultivation which is the most common agricultural tradition.
The most popular food of the Garo tribes is rice with capsicum, onion and salt.
Garo literature mainly transferred from generation to generation and one place to another orally. Most of the oral tradition now become the element of Garo literature
Greatest among Garo festivals is the Wangala, usually celebrated in October or November, is thanksgiving after harvest in which Saljong, the god who provides mankind with Nature’s bounties and ensures their prosperity, is honor.

Khasi Schedule Tribe of Meghalaya:

According to the 2011 Census of India, over 1.72 million Khasi lived in Meghalaya in the districts of East Khasi Hills, West Khasi Hills, South West Khasi Hills, Ri-Bhoi, West Jaintia Hills and East Jaintia Hills. In Assam, their population reached 35,000.
They are the largest tribal group of North eastern region. Khasis are known with a number of names in different parts of Meghalaya.
The Khasi people of the War sub-tribe designed and built the famous living root bridgesof the Cherrapunji.
As a religion they follow Christianity (85%), Ka Niam Khasi (10%), Hinduism (3%), and Islam (2%)
The Khasis are, for the most part, Their social organisation does not favour other forms of marriage; therefore, deviation from this norm is quite rare. Young men and women are permitted considerable freedom in the choice of mates. Potential marriage partners are likely to have been acquainted before betrothal.
The traditional political structure of the Khasi community was democratic in nature. The Khasis consisted of ‘native states’ which would congregate during dorbars or sessions and come to a decision regarding any dispute or problems that would arise in the community much like the Panchayati Raj prevalent in most Indian States

Jaintia Schedule Tribe of Meghalaya :

Jaintias too reside in the foot hills of Jaintia Hills from where they collect their name.
These are a type of Khasi tribe which further includes Bhoi in the northern Meghalaya; Khynriam in the central Meghalaya; Pnar of the Jaintia hills; War in the southern Meghalaya.
Achiks are another group of Garo tribes who comprise one third of Meghalaya’s tribal community.

Rivers and drainage system of Meghalaya

January 15, 2018September 12, 2024 by rawan239

Rivers and drainage system of Meghalaya

One of the world’s wettest regions is found in Meghalaya. Mawsynram and Cherrapunji (Sohra) in the East Khasi Hills district are geographically considered as the rainiest places in the World. — Cherrapunji, which has an average annual precipitation of about 11,430 mm (450 inches) during monsoon season (from May to September) and Mawsynram, a village directly west of Cherrapunji, where rainfall of around 17,800 mm (700 inches) per year has been recorded. The area receives rainfall on an average for 160 days in a year, spread over 6 to 8 months from March to October.

Physiographically, Meghalaya represents a remanant of an ancient plateau of Pre-Cambrian Peninsular shield, block lifted to its present height and is referred as Meghalaya Plateau or as Shillong-Mikir massif. It is the detached northeastern extension of Indian Peninsular shield, part of which lies beneath the alluvium deposited by Ganga Brahmaputra system of rivers. The rivers of the State are rainfed and therefore their discharge dwindles during summer. Important rivers in Garo Hills region are Daring, Sanda, Bugi, Dareng and Simsang. In the central and eastern part of the plateau are Umkhri, Digaru, Umngot and Myntdu rivers.

The surface water resource is tapped in a number of places by constructing dams across the rivers. The reservoirs, like the Umium and Kopili, so developed are not only used for irrigation and drinking water but also for generating electricity. Inspite of this, the area experiences shortage of water during the summer resulting in crisis for drinking water. This is mainly due to topographical and geomorphological conditions apart from alterations of the natural land surface by way of development, mining and urbanization.

Moreover, the characteristic hilly and steep sloping terrain condition in the area with localized small valleys results in very high surface run-off during the monsoon.

Some of the important rivers of Meghalaya are as follows:

Digaru

Digaru is a river originating in the Garo-Khasi hills of Meghalaya state in India, flowing towards the northeast and then meeting the Kolong river and then merging with the Brahmaputra river. The name Digaru originated from a Kachari/Mech word ‘Di’ which means water and ‘Garo’ means the people living in the Garo hills. Hence Digaru literally means “water of the Garo”.

Kopili River

The Kopili originates in the Meghalaya plateau and flows through southern Assam before its confluence with the Brahmaputra. In Assam it drains the districts of Karbi Anglong, Dima Hasao, Kamrup and Rivers and drainage system of Meghalaya Nagaon. The river flows for a total length of 290 kilometres (180 mi) and has a catchment area of 16,420 square kilometres (6,340 sq mi). It is noted for several spectacular waterfalls along its course which has several deep gorges and rapids in the 120 kilometres (75 mi) of its flow before debouching into the plains at Nagaon district.

Myntdu River

Myntdu River is one of the major water bodies in Jaintia Hills District, Meghalaya, locally known as ‘ka Tawiar ka Takan’ (Our Guardian Angel) in the Pnar dialect. It is a blessing to the residents of the town of Jowai and adjacent places. Its abundant water is used to irrigate the Myntdu Valley, located on the outskirts of Jowai town. The river, originating at 1,420 metres (4,660 ft) above sea level, is fit for hydro-power development.

The river flows across Jowai, and then through Leshka (where a Hydro Project Dam is being constructed) to reach a village Borghat, within Jaintia Hills, before finally entering Bangladesh, where it is locally called ‘Shari’.

Piyain River

Piyain River a trans-boundary river of India and Bangladesh. It is a tributary of the Surma river, which is originates from the Umgat river of Assam. The river enters Bangladesh through Sylhet district. The length of the river is 145 km. Piyain river has emerged from the river om or Umagat river or Assam.

Someshwari River

Someshwari River, known as Simsang River in the Indian state of Meghalaya, is a major river in the Garo Hills of Meghalaya and Netrakona District of Bangladesh. It divides the Garo Hills into two parts.

Natural hazards and related issues of Meghalaya

January 15, 2018September 10, 2024 by rawan239

Natural hazards and related issues of Meghalaya

As the State lies in the seismically active zone, special emphasis should be given to reduce the impacts of earthquake. Moreover, it is also affected by hazards such as floods, flash floods, epidemics, fire, hailstorm, lightening, road accidents, etc.

Earthquake

The State of Meghalaya has witnessed seismic events of ‘8.7 magnitude in 1897’. This region has been identified as a potential site of a future catastrophic earthquake. With the growth of population and infrastructure seismic vulnerability has increased and previous earthquakes have provided a glimpse of the devastating potential of seismic tremors.

Cyclones

Meghalaya is situated in the north eastern direction of Bangladesh which is highly prone to cyclone/ winds. Every year about 60% of the area is affected by cyclone in Bangladesh. The Districts of West Jaintia Hills and East Jaintia Hills may experience a wind speed of up to 55m/s. Occasional cyclones do occur in western Meghalaya their severity being more during monsoon season. The Districts close to Bangladesh like South West Garo Hills, South Garo Hills, South West Khasi Hills, West Khasi Hills, fall in very high cyclonic zone due to close proximity to Bay of Bengal (which is a cyclone basin). In this zone wind speed can reach up-to 50 m/s, which can cause large scale damages. The Bay of Bengal accounts for seven percent of the annual tropical cyclone activity worldwide; the recorded frequency of cyclones per year along the Bay of Bengal is four and inevitably one of the four transforms into a severe cyclone causing human and property losses

Floods

The State with hilly terrain does not suffer from a major problem from floods, However, due to heavy rain, flash floods may be caused resulting in river bank erosion and some local damage. In Meghalaya, Natural hazards and related issues of Meghalaya floods occur in river valleys, when flow exceeds the capacity of the river channel, particularly at bends or meanders. The plain areas of Meghalaya adjoining Assam are affected by flood due to the back flow of water from the River Brahmaputra during the flood season between June and October. The tributaries like Krishnai, Jinari, Jingjiram, Rongai, Dudhnoi, Ringgi, Gohai, Dilni etc cause flood in the plain areas of the State.

Landsides

Meghalaya being a hilly terrain is prone to landslides. Every year a number of landslides have been reported from various localities. These cause a lot of miseries to public, resulting in loss of lives and properties, disruption of communication network, besides causing economic burden on the society. Landslide is primarily attributed to high slope, immature geology, neo-tectonic activity, heavy rainfall, unplanned and improper land use practice in the State. Landslides generally occur during heavy rains, that is during the months of June to October in Meghalaya.

Southern part of Meghalaya is more susceptible to Landslides than the Northern Part. National Highways like Bajengdoba-Tura-Dalu, Damra–Siju-Baghmara, Guwahati – Shillong- Tamabil, and Shillong- Jowai- Badarpur are prone to landslides.

Landslide occurred frequently at Sonapur on Shillong- Jowai- Badarpur Road, but now the problem has been mitigated by constructing a tunnel for the vehicular traffic. Urban areas of Shillong and Tura, Jowai are also prone to landslides due to the faulty Construction of Houses and rapid Urbanization.

Lightning and Hailstorms

Lightning occurs during the monsoon months and can strike at any place. Hailstorm generally occurs in the pre and post monsoon months. Some loss of crops lives and properties due to lightning and hailstorms are reported in the state.

Hazard Specific Mitigation Plan

The State Disaster Management Authority was established in the State under the Chairmanship of the Chief Minister with 8 other members under section 14 of the Disaster Management Act, 2005 by a Government notification dated 26th June, 2008. It is the apex body for disaster management in the State.

The State Executive Committee headed by the Chief Secretary with 4 other Secretaries as members was also set up to assist the State Disaster Management Authority in the performance of its functions.

The District Disaster Management Authorities under the Chairmanship of the Deputy Commissioners and Chief Executive Members of the District Councils as Co-Chairmen with 5 District Officials as members were also set up for the better management of disasters in the Districts.

Similarly at the Block and Village levels Block Disaster Management Committee and the Village Disaster Management Committee were set up headed by the respective Block Development Officers and the Village Headmen. The State Disaster Management Authority, has set uMock drill by NGO’sMock drill by NGO’sp a State Disaster Management Secretariat in 2010 which is located in the Office of the Director of Land Records and Surveys, Lower Lachumere, Shillong. The day to day functioning of the SDMA is looked after by the Executive Officer of the Secretariat.

Functions of SDMA

Framing of Disaster Management Policy and the preparation of the State Disaster Management Plan, reviewing the preparedness, prevention, mitigation and capacity building measures in the State.

Activities of SDMA

The preparedness, prevention, mitigation and capacity building programmes.

The Disaster Risk Reduction Project funded by the UNDP which focuses on the awareness programmes, capacity building, strengthening of the disaster management institutions are being implemented in the three districts of East Khasi Hills. West Garo Hills and the Jaintia Hills, While the Urban Risk Reduction Programme is being implemented in the capital city Shillong through the SDMA Secretariat the Capacity Building Programme is under the 13th Finance Commission. Besides, Hazard Risk Vulnerability Assessment (HRVA) will also be carried out for the Shillong city and the West Garo Hills through North Eastern Space Application Centre, Umiam.

State Disaster Response Fund is available for management of disasters in the State. An advance amount from the fund is made available to the Deputy Commissioners to meet any emergency arising out of disasters.

Wild life and ecotourism of Meghalaya

January 15, 2018September 10, 2024 by rawan239

Wild life and ecotourism of Meghalaya

Meghalaya is considered by many biologists to have been the gateway through which many species of Indo-Chinese origin, particularly mammals migrated to Peninsular India. It is said that about 50% of the total number of mammal genera found in the entire Indian sub-continent can be seen in Meghalaya and its adjoining states in the Northeast. Out of the above, nine genera of mammals, such as Tupaia, Rhizomys, Cannomys, Chiropodomys, Micromys, etc occur only in Meghalaya and its adjacent areas.

In the forests of Meghalaya, specially in lower altitudes, multifarious species of birds can be seen in abundance. Some of the common birds found in Meghalaya include Hoopoe, long tailed Broadbill, Scarlet Minivet, Burmese Roller, Blue Throated Barbet, red veted Bulbul, Himalayan black Bulbul, Himalayan whistling Thrush, Spotted Forktail, black-breasted Kalij Pheasant, red jungle Fowl, Mynas and Turtle Dove. Besides, Hornbills including the Great Indian Hornbill, Florican, Owl, Black Drongo and many other birds are also found.

Reptile population in Meghalaya includes lizards and snakes, poisonous and non-poisonous. Important ones include Indian Cobra, King Cobra, Coral Snake, Vipers, Python, blind Snake, Copperback, red-necked Kulback, and Green tree Racer.

Some species of different families of mammals namely Primates, the Cats, Civets, Mongooses, Dogs, Bear, Weasels, Bats, Rodents, Elephants, Gaur, Wild Buffalo, Serow, Deer, Pigs and Pangolins are seen roaming in the forests of Meghalaya. In Meghalaya we come across apes as well as Monkeys and Lemurs.

Meghalaya wildlife is full of treasure trove of Nature, with its rich variation of dense endemic and cultivated flora. Nature, in its plenteous abundance, had blessed Meghalaya with a unique array of plantation, ranging from tropical and sub-tropical to temperate or near temperate. This is due to the diverse physiology, varied and plentiful of rainfall and distinctive climatic and edaphic conditions of the state, within small regions. Biotic factors have also played an important role, at places decisive.

Ecotourism

The State of Meghalaya is a jewel in the crown of the Seven Sister States of North East India. With beautiful landscapes, hundreds of waterfalls and welcoming people, the capital of this State Shillong, has no wonder derived the name as being the ‘Scotland of the East’. Shillong is a city where you get to see a blend of the Modern and the Cultural World and music being the soul of the Khasi Tribal people of Shillong the city has also added to its kitty the title of being called ‘India’s Rock Capital’.

Some of the important national parks and sanctuaries in meghalaya are as follows:

Nokrek National Park

The Nokrek National Park and Biosphere Reserve is about 45 kms from Tura. Nokrek is the highest peak in Garo Hills and home to different species of wild animals including Elephants and Hoolock Gibbons. The Nokrek National Park has been established at Nokrek and it abounds in various wildlife including herds of wild elephants, rare varieties of birds and pheasants, beside rare orchids. The park is also home to a very rare species of citrus-indica endemic to this place which the locals call memang narang (‘orange of the spirits’). Nokrek is also believed to be the home of Mande Burung (jungle man or ape man) and reported cases of sightings abound in and around the villages of Nokrek.

Selbagre Hoolock Gibbon Reserve

This small area protected by the community is home to the Hoolock Gibbons, the only ape species found in India. The sacred grove in the reserve is the pride of the village and the community. The Garos never kill or hunt the Hoolock Gibbon as it is a traditional belief among them that if a Hoolock Gibbon is killed, a famine or a curse would befall the entire village.

Balpakram National Park

Balpakram is a fertile virgin land. The UN surveyed belts of limestone and coal deposits, along with sea shells fossilized into rocks in Balpakram hill provide immense scope for geological and archeological studies. The animals which can be seen in this national park are elephants, wild buffaloes, gaur, sambar, barking deer, wild boar, slow loris, capped langur, tigers, leopards, clouded leopards and the rare golden cat.

Siju Bird Sanctuary

Siju Bird Sanctuary is located in the hilly regions, it is a perfect destination for people who like watching birds of different species. The sanctuary has been made so that the birds do not feel caged and are not disturbed by any human. The entry of the Siju Bird Sanctuary is beautifully decorated by rock formations. The Siberian ducks also migrate here during the winter months. The lesser or Grey Hornbill is also seen around Siju. One interesting and rare bird is the Peacock Pheasant seen in Siju.

Nongkhyllem Sanctuary

Nongkhyllem Sanctuary of Meghalaya is spread over an area of 29 sq. km. and thereby houses a large number of animals including reptiles, mammals, avian, rodents, etc. The sanctuary still retains the natural look of the forest. Nongkhyllem Sanctuary of Meghalaya is situated in the Ri-Bhoi district near Lailad village. The sanctuary is accessible through road. You can take up the Guwahati Shillong National Highway number 40 and get down at Umling and then along Umling Patharkhmah road take another bus or cab to Lailad village. This sanctuary is one of its kinds as it hosts a wide range of flora and fauna. The sanctuary supports various species of fauna including those facing the danger of extinction. They include Royal Bengal Tiger, Indian Bison, Himalayan Black Bear, Clouded Leopard, etc.