NEW DELHI, 14 Oct: Rajya Sabha member from Arunachal Pradesh Tai Tagak participated in the first meeting of the Parliamentary Standing committee on Water Resource, held at Samanvay, Parliament House here on Tuesday.

The meeting chaired by Committee chairperson Rajiv Pratap Rudy witnessed detailed deliberations on several critical issues concerning water resources, water management, climate change, water security and flood management across the country.

Participating in the deliberations, Tagak stressed the importance of strengthening water-resource management and conservation, particularly in the ecologically sensitive Himalayan and North-Eastern regions.

The MP highlighted the storm water management, keeping in mind the growing urbanization, spring water management and dam safety measures.

During the meeting, the committee thoroughly discussed the increasing risks associated with Glacial Lake Outburst Floods (GLOFs), particularly in the Himalayan region. The meeting gave emphasis on the need for strengthened monitoring, early-warning systems, scientific assessment and preparedness measures to mitigate GLOF-related risks. The Committee also discussed rainwater harvesting, groundwater recharge and sustainable water management.

The Committee also deliberated on an overview of the 'Per Drop More Crop' initiative, with particular reference to the expansion of micro-irrigation and Command Area Development. The discussion focused on improving irrigation efficiency, promoting judicious use of water, expanding drip and sprinkler irrigation, and strengthening water management practices for sustainable agricultural development.

Particular attention was given to the water resources challenges of the North-Eastern Region, including issues relating to soil erosion, groundwater recharge, pollution control and management of water bodies. The Committee also reviewed the restoration of water bodies in the Indian Himalayan Region and North-Eastern region, "which are facing increasing pressures due to urbanisation, hydropower activities, construction and other anthropogenic factors," said a press statement.

The meeting emphasised the need for scientific, sustainable and integrated management of water resources, improved flood preparedness and effective measures to address the emerging challenges posed by climate change.

Members of the Committee, senior officials from the ministry of Jal Shakti, department of water resources and line departments and public sector undertakings attended the meeting.