Eco-Development Society
Introduction
The Eco-Development Society of Meghalaya was established in March 1985 for taking up Socio-Economic developmental works in the surroundings of Balpakram National Park and Nokrek National Park in identified villages.
The Organisational Framework
According to the Memorandum of Association and Rules and Regulation of the society, the Government may appoint the Chairman and the Board of Directors and may appoint a Vice-Chairman.
Chairman
Vacant
Managing Director
Smti. N.R.D. Marak, MFS, (holding Additional charge)
Major Achievements
The Society has spearheaded numerous socio-economic and infrastructural projects benefiting the local communities around the National Parks.
Land Development
Grant is given at ₹3,000/- per ha. for wet paddy cultivation surface area developed/reclaimed.
Irrigation
Small irrigation dams and channels are constructed, and payment is made at ₹4,000/- per ha of reclaimed land irrigated.
Horticulture
Free seedlings (Oranges, Arecanut) are given up to 1 Ha. per family, with grants for maintenance based on success.
Additional Crops
Raising rubber seedlings for budding with the Soil Conservation Department. Encouraging Tezpat and Cane planting.
School Buildings
Helped villagers construct semi-pucca school buildings replacing dilapidated bamboo and thatch structures.
Drinking Water Supply
Construction of ring wells, dams, or piped water to the center of villages through self-help with students and villagers combined.
Communication
Footpaths connecting villages and jeepable roads connecting PWD roads. Society constructs footbridges where required.
Awareness Campaigns
Conducting Environmental Awareness Campaign Programmes in East, West, and South Garo Hills.
Bamboo Plantation
Bamboo Plantation is done in selected Nokma A.king lands in collaboration with village Community Reserve Committees.
Rehabilitation
Rehabilitation of people shifted from the core area of Balpakram National Park. Kaweng and Rongkandi relocated to Maighat and Rongaresonggital.
Afforestation
Afforestation of water catchment areas as well as for future villagers' needs around Nokrek and Balpakram National Parks.
Future Scope
As per the memorandum of Association, the main objectives of Eco-Development Society of Meghalaya can be taken up in various integrated developmental works not only around the protected areas but also in many ecologically sensitive areas.
The Society can take up watershed management in important catchment areas growing eco-friendly commercial crops like Black pepper, coffee, Tezpat, etc. The Society can also take up the Cottage industry promoting market facilities to the farmers and many other Eco-Developmental works.
Furthermore, the society aims to distribute solar lamps and solar home lighting systems around protected areas, especially in the relocated villages of Rongkandi and Kaweng.