The National Water Mission, under the Ministry of Jal Shakti, is set to host the ‘All India Secretaries' Conference on Water Vision @ 2047 -Way Ahead.’ The conference, scheduled to take place in Mahabalipuram, Chennai (Tamil Nadu) on January 23rd and 24th, 2024, aims to ideate, share best practices, and review the progress made on the 22 recommendations put forward during the ‘1st All India Annual State Ministers Conference on Water.’
Paving the Path for Sustainable Water Management
The inaugural All India Annual State Ministers Conference on Water was held in Bhopal on January 5th and 6th, 2023. It set the stage for a visionary approach to sustainable water management and equitable access. Water, as an invaluable asset, plays a pivotal role as the lifeblood of ecosystems, communities, and economies. Beyond its fundamental role in sustenance, water influences agriculture, industry, and energy production.
The primary objective of this initial conference was to establish and strengthen partnerships with states and stakeholder ministries, working towards a shared vision for integrated and holistic water resource management. Breaking down silos in the water sector, the conference resulted in 22 recommendations aimed at realising the vision of water security.
Following Up on Recommendations
The upcoming conference in Mahabalipuram serves as a follow-up to the Bhopal event, focusing on implementing the 22 recommendations. Key sessions will address five themes derived from these recommendations: Water Governance and Water Quality, Climate Resilience and River Health, Water Use Efficiency, Water Storage, and Jan Bhagidari.
The two-day conference will witness the presence of Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, Union Minister for Jal Shakti, and Durai Muruga, Minister for Water Resource, Government of Tamil Nadu. On this occasion, the Ministry of Jal Shakti will release a film titled "For a Water Secure Future," along with a book named "Jal Shakti Abhiyan: Catch the Rain – A Journey."
Fostering Collaboration Among Stakeholders
This conference stands as a platform for fostering collaboration among various stakeholders in the water sector. Participants include representatives from Central Partner Ministries, State Governments, Non-Governmental Organisations (NGOs), Bilateral Partners, and other relevant stakeholders. This collaborative effort aims to share insights, exchange knowledge, and enrich the national vision for water security.
Role of Stakeholders
State Governments
State-level representatives will play a crucial role in sharing regional challenges, successes, and best practices. The conference aims to facilitate inter-state collaboration and the exchange of knowledge for improved water governance.
Central Partner Ministries
Collaboration with various ministries is essential for a holistic approach. Representatives from central partner ministries will discuss cross-sectoral initiatives and policy coherence.
NGOs
Non-Governmental Organisations bring grassroots perspectives and community engagement models to the table. The conference will explore avenues for effective collaboration between government bodies and NGOs to amplify impact.
Bilateral Partners
Bilateral partners will share insights, experiences, and best practices, fostering mutual learning and collaboration on water-related challenges.
