This document provides for the water policy in the state of Mizoram. The Policy gives a background of the water resources in the state and the current supply and demand scenario of water resources in Mizoram. The policy consists of 21 sections. Section 1 is the preamble and Section 2 provides an overview of water resources in the state. Section 3 lays down the principles of the water policy and states that the ownership of water resides within the state as a publicly owned resource (public trust doctrine). Section 4 lays down the priorities of water allocation as follows: 1. Drinking water and Sanitation; 2. Minimum Environmental and Ecological Needs; 3. Agriculture and Allied purposes; 4. Industries and commercial use; and 5. Hydropower. Section 5 provides for the measures for adaptation to climate change. Section 6 contains the strategies for enhancing water available for use and section 8 provides for demand side management. Section 7 discusses the water quality and section 9 talks about conservation of water bodies and infrastructure. Section 10 requires water resources project planning to consider social and environmental aspects. Section 11 lays down the policies in respect of management of drought, flood and erosion. Section 12 provides for water supply and sanitation measures. Section 15 deals with transboundary rivers and section 16 provides for database management and information system. Section 17 talks about the need for research, training and capacity building, while section 18 discusses the institutional arrangement. Section 19 describes the implementation strategy for the water policy. Section 20 highlights that the state water policy is in alignment with the National Water Policy and the National Water Mission.
India · 2020-10-12