ICAR-IISWC, Dehradun Organises Workshop on Soil and Water Conservation in Himalayan Regions of Uttarakhand

9 September 2026, Dehradun

On the occasion of Himalaya Diwas today ICAR–Indian Institute of Soil and Water Conservation, Dehradun, organised a workshop on “Soil and Water Conservation in the Mountainous Regions of Uttarakhand: A Scientific Perspective”, bringing together experts and stakeholders to deliberate on climate change, natural disasters, biodiversity conservation and sustainable management of soil and water resources in the Himalayan region.

The Chief Guest, Padma Shri Kalyan Singh Rawat, spoke on the ecological, hydrological, biodiversity and socio-economic significance of the Himalayas. Drawing attention to declining snowfall and the increasing risks associated with glacial lakes, he highlighted the critical link between Himalayan glaciers, water sources and major rivers that support drinking water, agriculture and human livelihoods.

Referring to Himalayan floods, glacial lake-related risks in the Nepal region and the Kedarnath tragedy, Padma Shri Rawat stressed the need for scientific monitoring, early warning systems, disaster risk reduction and active participation of local communities. He also emphasised the conservation of Uttarakhand’s Bugyals (high-altitude alpine meadows), which are important biodiversity hotspots and natural habitats for medicinal and other useful plant species. He called for scientific management, restoration and community participation to address their degradation and ensure their sustainable use.

Dr Charan Singh, Acting Director, ICAR-IISWC, underlined the vital role of the Himalayas in sustaining the country’s major rivers and water resources. He noted that environmental changes in the region have far-reaching implications for soil, water, agriculture and ecosystems, and stressed the importance of scientific research and effective conservation measures for safeguarding these natural resources.'

The workshop also highlighted the importance of bamboo cultivation and bamboo nurseries in Uttarakhand, along with demonstrations on the use of drones in agriculture, natural resource management, and soil and water conservation. The discussions reinforced the need for integrated and locally appropriate solutions to strengthen the resilience of Himalayan ecosystems and mountain farming communities.

Around 140 participants actively participated in the programme, including experts, officials and stakeholders from various fields.

(Source: ICAR-Indian Institute of Soil and Water Conservation, Dehradun)