Meghalaya became the first state in India to ensure the conservation of water and have own water policy following a nod given by the State Cabinet yesterday.<br />'' <br />'' The draft policy was approved by the State Cabinet in a meeting chaired by Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma.<br />'' <br />'' After the meeting, Chief Minister Sangma said in a tweet that it is historic for Meghalaya as the state has become the first State in the country to have a State Water Policy.<br />'' <br />'' The objective of the policy is to recognize water resources as a common pool resource, to provide safe and hygienic water for drinking, domestic and sanitation and livelihood development to all residents of the state.<br />'' <br />'' Among other things, the draft State Water Policy which seeks to protect and improve management of water resources while actively involving the community.<br />'' <br />'' It also aims at ensuring protection and conservation of catchment areas of all water sources to prevent degradation of the quantity and quality of water sources.<br />'' <br />'' Deputy Chief Minister Prestone Tynsong  informed that the implementation of the policy through active participation of the community by constituting a Water Sanitation Village Council at the village level. He assured this policy will go a long way in changing the mindset of the people and proper utilization of water.<br />