Meghalaya and Nepal Forge Partnership to Bolster Himalayan Climate Resilience
In a significant move to address climate challenges in the Himalayan region, the governments of Meghalaya and Nepal signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on Friday. This agreement aims to strengthen cooperation and knowledge exchange on nature-based solutions and mountain resilience, marking a collaborative effort to tackle environmental vulnerabilities.
International Conference Sets the Stage for Agreement
The MoU was formalised during the inaugural session of a two-day international conference titled “Scaling Nature-based Solutions for Himalayan Resilience.” Held in Shillong from January 30 to 31, this event brought together a diverse group of stakeholders to advance strategies for sustainable development in mountain ecosystems.
The conference is jointly organised by the Meghalaya Basin Development Authority and the International Centre for Integrated Mountain Development. It serves as a platform for policymakers, researchers, practitioners, development partners, private sector representatives, youth, and community leaders from across the Indian Himalayan Region and the wider Hindu Kush Himalaya.
Addressing Climate Vulnerabilities in the Himalayas
An official statement highlighted the critical situation in the Indian Himalayan Region, noting it is among the most climate-vulnerable areas globally. The region faces numerous risks, including:
- Erratic rainfall patterns and extreme weather events
- Ecosystem degradation and biodiversity loss
- Increased frequency of floods and landslides
These challenges pose significant threats to water security, food systems, livelihoods, and human settlements. The statement emphasised the urgent need for integrated, landscape-level responses that protect both ecological integrity and community well-being.
Community-Led Conservation Efforts Emphasised
During the conference, Meghalaya Chief Secretary Shakil P Ahammed underscored the importance of community-led conservation efforts in the state. His remarks highlighted the role of local initiatives in building resilience and fostering sustainable practices that align with nature-based solutions.
The MoU between Meghalaya and Nepal is expected to facilitate the sharing of best practices, research findings, and innovative approaches to climate adaptation. By leveraging nature-based solutions, the partnership aims to enhance the resilience of mountain communities and ecosystems against the impacts of climate change.
This collaboration represents a proactive step towards addressing the complex environmental issues facing the Himalayan region, with a focus on sustainable development and long-term ecological health.
