IIFM Bhopal inks MoU with NTPC for Narmada Landscape Restoration project

Indian Institute of Forest Management (IIFM) Bhopal has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with NTPC Ltd, a PSU under the Ministry of Power, for implementation of Narmada Landscape Restoration Project. The project is being done in partnership with a grant-in-aid from the United States Agency for International Development (USAID), the international development arm of the US Government, and NTPC Ltd in equal proportions.

The four-year project will be implemented in Madhya Pradesh (MP) in Khargone District in the catchments of Narmada river’s selected tributaries between Maheshwar and Omkareshwar dams. IIFM Bhopal will be jointly implementing this project with the Global Green Growth Institute (GGGI) that promotes sustainable and inclusive economic growth in emerging economies. With the funding support from USAID, the GGGI will take part in this project.

The project is expected to positively impact the water quantity and quality of Narmada tributaries with the aim to establish an incentivisation mechanism. It can continue to support farm communities of the Narmada basin, the riparian forest and maintain sustainable landscape practices.

Executive Director of SSEA and CSO of NTPC, SM Chowdhury said: “NTPC Ltd. is committed towards sustainable development of nation, social and economic upliftment of society, besides fostering a healthy environment through its business and Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) activities.” He added: “The project will support the forest communities and the farmers apart from women in the catchment of Narmada river in Khargone district of MP.”

IIFM Bhopal Director Dr Pankaj Srivastava said: “With the introduction of a smarter way for the purification of urban water supplies, it will be a win-win for Indore’s water consumers and the residents of villages in water zone source.” The incentivisation mechanism on scaling up will result in the improvement of water quantity and quality and is expected to greatly benefit the city of Indore.

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