Rural Livelihoods and Sustainable Water Resource Management: A case Study of Aizawl, Mizoram

A livelihood can be sustained when it can cope with and recover from stress and shocks and maintain or enhance its capabilities and assets, while not undermining the natural resource base. The main aim of the study is to understand rural livelihood vis-à-vis sustainable water resources management in Tlangnuam block, Mizoram. The study encompassed various facets of water use by the rural households of the study area which includes water resources, utilization and management system if any. Primary data was collected from all the villages by using random sampling technique. Statistical techniques – Z score standardized technique, simple arithmetic and Pearlson’s coefficient of correlation methods were applied to the obtained data for further analysis. Suggestions have been made for sustainable water resource management. The effect of the ever-increasing population pressure on environmental resources is evident from the present research work. Springs, piped water supply and streams are the main sources of water in the study area with most of the households depending on springs. The problem of drying of springs due to anthropogenic and natural causes has become a burning problem in recent times, more so in the Himalayan states where springs form the main sources of water for the villagers. The present research work identifies the dependency of the households of Tlangnuam RD block on various available water sources, the socio-economic problems faced during lean periods and the endeavours (if any) of local community and government toward sustainable management of water resources for boosting rural livelihood of Tlangnuam RD block.