The recent State Wetland Authority (SWA) meeting has thrown light to some vital details concerning Arunachal’s wetlands conservation needs. From the meeting it has transpired that a lot of actions need to be initiated immediately to address the problem of gradually depleting wetland area coverage in state. In this context it will be relevant to mention the example of Jote Lake which may be termed as a success story of water conservation initiative that is worth emulating. That what once used to be a mouse-tail like free flowing water only has now metamorphosed into a full capacity lake which is playing a multifarious role. Besides proving its beneficial role in engineering ecological balance, the lake is now supplementing farming activities by providing the much need irrigation water and is also a steady revenue earner by attracting tourists. These are the lessons which can be learnt  from this micro-level success and can serve as a solid input material while formulating a full-fledged state policy on wetland conservation.

The baneful effects of Climate Change and ecological imbalance are now the front ranking concerns that are tormenting all nations and India, which is geographically vast and varied is also much worried. In this respect, it has been proved that wetlands go a long way in playing balancing roles and in layman’s language can be termed as a great and trusted ‘shock absorber’ of a host of negativities which have been unleashed by none other than humans themselves in quest of development. The central rules which are known as Wetlands (Conservation and Management) Rules, 2017 allows a decentralised mechanism of wetlands management by giving the states powers to identify, notify wetlands within their jurisdictions, keep watch on prohibited activities and do the most vital thing- manage these ecologically fragile areas which act as saviours in flood control, groundwater recharge, plant preservation and a refuge to migratory birds. From the 2017 Forest Survey Report, it is clear that there has been a decrease of 195 sq. km in water body coverage within forests compared taking 2005 as base year in state due to a host of activities ranging from jhum cultivation, landslides, encroachment, deforestation and those arising from developmental activities. But the problem is that the primary part in the process of restoration i.e identification and survey are yet to get a desirable fillip due to the absence of a clear-cut state policy. For this, benefits from centrally funded schemes had so far remained elusive for the state also.

But these are the assets for Arunachal and saving them will not only guarantee ecological well-being but also contribute quite positively in furthering the cause of tourism promotion. The state thus must kick start the long-awaited wetland saving initiatives without wasting any further time.