• Tamesh Nyokir

Water resource management in mountain regions involves unique challenges arising from complex topography, fragile ecosystems, climatic variability, and dispersed human settlements. Arunachal Pradesh, located in the Eastern Himalayan region of India, is commonly perceived as a water-rich state due to its high rainfall and extensive river systems. However, many mountain villages across the state increasingly experience seasonal and localized water scarcity, particularly during dry months. This paper examines the nature and dynamics of water resource management in the mountain villages of Arunachal Pradesh, with particular emphasis on the role of springs as primary sources of drinking water, community-based management practices, and institutional interventions. Based on secondary data drawn from academic literature, government reports, policy documents, and credible media sources, the study argues that water insecurity in mountain villages is less a consequence of physical water scarcity and more the result of ecological degradation, changing land-use patterns, climate variability, and governance approaches that inadequately reflect mountain hydrology. The paper highlights how declining spring discharge, weakening traditional institutions, and infrastructure-centric policy responses have contributed to growing vulnerability at the village level. It emphasizes the importance of springshed conservation, integration of indigenous knowledge with scientific planning, and community participation in water governance. The study concludes that context-sensitive, ecosystem-based, and decentralized management approaches are essential for ensuring long-term water security in the fragile mountain landscapes of Arunachal Pradesh.

Water resource management, mountain villages, springs, Arunachal Pradesh, Himalayan hydrology, community governance

"Water Resource Management in Mountain Villages of Arunachal Pradesh", International Journal of Emerging Technologies and Innovative Research (www.jetir.org), ISSN:2349-5162, Vol.13, Issue 2, page no.b700-b703, February-2026, Available :http://www.jetir.org/papers/JETIR2602191.pdf

"Water Resource Management in Mountain Villages of Arunachal Pradesh", International Journal of Emerging Technologies and Innovative Research (www.jetir.org | UGC and issn Approved), ISSN:2349-5162, Vol.13, Issue 2, page no. ppb700-b703, February-2026, Available at : http://www.jetir.org/papers/JETIR2602191.pdf