Meghalaya bets big on Miyawaki method to revive green cover

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SHILLONG: In a major push for environmental regeneration, Meghalaya has adopted the Miyawaki forest method—an innovative Japanese afforestation technique—to rapidly grow dense native forests across the state. The initiative, spearheaded by the Soil and Water Conservation Department, aligns with the government’s broader mission to restore degraded land and fight deforestation.

Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma, who has been vocal about rising deforestation and environmental degradation, visited a Miyawaki forest site at Mawsharoh, Ummir in East Khasi Hills on Thursday. The forest, spread over 1.5 hectares, is part of a larger plan to reclaim green spaces across 25,000 hectares of land in Meghalaya.

“The project will be expanded across the state as one of our main afforestation drives,” the Chief Minister said during the visit, reaffirming the government’s commitment to sustainable ecological practices.

The Miyawaki method, developed by Japanese botanist Akira Miyawaki, involves planting native species in close proximity, mimicking natural forest ecosystems. The approach leads to fast-growing, self-sustaining forests that require minimal maintenance and offer long-term ecological benefits. Officials from the department explained that these forests grow ten times faster than traditional plantations, improving biodiversity, sequestering carbon, and restoring ecological balance.

The government has also rolled out support measures such as the Green Meghalaya initiative and the Payment for Ecosystem Services (PES) to incentivize forest conservation. Collaborations with NGOs and local communities have added momentum to the state’s afforestation efforts, with local residents playing a key role in planting and nurturing these forests.

The first Miyawaki pilot in Meghalaya was launched three years ago in Garo Hills. Since then, the method has gained traction for its efficiency and environmental impact, especially in a region like Meghalaya, which boasts fertile soil and a favourable climate.

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