The Indian government is reviving its plan to establish a new water resources management authority, the North East Water Management Authority (Newma), to oversee projects in the northeastern states. Newma is intended to replace the Brahmaputra Board, which has faced challenges in achieving its objectives due to staff shortages and political disagreements. The new authority is expected to have a wider mandate and greater powers, including the ability to implement projects without seeking approval from the Central Water Commission. This move aims to address critical water management issues in the region, particularly flood control and erosion, while also strengthening India’s claim to river water originating in China.
