The Young Men’s Cultural and Research Association (YMCR) formally requested Foundation Day on the 10th of October from Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister Pema Khandu, urging him to enact a strong river protection law to safeguard the vital riverine systems of the state. The association cited the ecological, cultural, and economic importance of rivers, stating that river-related laws are needed to curb pollution, over-extraction, and unregulated developments along riverbanks.
Itanagar, The Youth Mission for Clean River has encouraged the Arunachal Pradesh government to enact a dedicated river preservation Act in order to address the state’s waterbodies’ mounting dangers. Citing increased worries over unlawful riverbed extraction, pollution, and disturbed natural flow patterns, YMCR emphasized the importance of comprehensive legal and administrative actions.
The group, which advocates for river protection and conservation, requested that the new legislation clearly specify community obligations and enforcement methods, building on successful models established in other states. As part of its proposals, YMCR advocated for the establishment of a specialized department or cell within the environment or water resources departments to monitor river health, enforce rules, coordinate restoration efforts, and conduct ongoing public education activities.
Concerns Over Environmental Degradation and Community Livelihoods
He also pointed out that there are increasing concerns about the loss of water quality and its negative effects on biodiversity, brought about by the effluents from industries, construction activities and in some cases, poor waste disposal practices. He denotes that the primary local communities, depending on rivers for sustenance, agriculture and cultural activities, face increased risks due to the absence of adequate protective legislation.
The association proposed that this new body supplement the recently established Arunachal Pradesh Flood Plain Zoning Act, 2025. To raise public awareness and encourage greater participation, the group proposed establishing an annual ‘Arunachal River Day’ and a dedicated state-level colloquium on environmental protection. The group also requested Khandu to serve as YMCR’s principal patron, adding that his support would encourage increased youth participation in river conservation initiatives. The chief minister praised the YMCR team for its proactive efforts and advocacy.
Advocacy for Sustainable Development and Policy Enforcement
Associations have urged the state government to formulate and enforce policies based on scientific assessments and considers community participation, sustainable resource management frameworks, etc. The association argued for a multidisciplinary approach to protect the river basins of Arunachal for eco-development projects in line with environmental conservation.
“The rivers of Arunachal Pradesh are our lifeblood. I fully support the mission of YMCR and encourage wider public participation in these crucial conservation efforts. Together, we can work towards restoring and preserving our rivers for future generations,” the chief minister added.
