India's President, Droupadi Murmu today inaugurated 7th India Water Week at the India Expo Centre in Greater Noida, Uttar Pradesh, in the august presence of UP Governor-Anandiben Patel, Chief Minister-Yogi Adityanath, Union Minister of Jal Shakti-Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, Ministers of State for Jal Shakti-Prahlad Singh Patel & Bishweswar Tudu.
Pankaj Kumar, Secretary, Ministry of Jal Shakti, welcomed all dignitaries, and the event began with the auspicious ceremony of "Jal Bharo" by the President and other dignitaries present on the dais by pouring water into the vessel, strengthening the vision of Jal Shakti. This ceremony represented the critical importance of water conservation.
During IWW-2022, there will be four Technical Sessions, each of which will include ten seminars, ten-panel discussions, events, and side events. A large group of eminent international and national figures will share their experiences in the field of water management. In addition, an exhibition will run concurrently, supporting the theme and showcasing the latest technologies, developments, and solutions for water management for sustainable development.
Exhibitors will also have direct contact with thousands of potential clients, highly qualified visitors, and promotional opportunities to find joint ventures to help them expand their business in the rapidly growing India water market and improve brand visibility and image. A special after-party will be organised by Denmark.
In her address, Droupadi Murmu stated, "It is impossible to imagine life without water. Water is important in Indian civilization not only in life but also in the afterlife. That is why all water sources are revered. However, looking at the current situation, the situation appears to be concerning, and thus discussing water management is a very commendable step in such a situation. Water is an issue that affects the entire world, and I am pleased to note that Denmark, Finland, Germany, Israel, and the European Union are participating in the 7th India Water Week.” The President expressed confidence that the exchange of ideas and technologies would benefit everyone.
"Water is a major resource for agriculture as well; providing clean drinking water to a growing population will be a major challenge in the coming years. Water is a multifaceted and complex issue that requires the cooperation of all stakeholders,” President added. She urged people to be aware of its misuse and to educate others about the importance of water conservation. She expressed confidence that the outcomes of the 7th Water Week brainstorming will benefit the earth and humanity. She urged ordinary people, farmers, industrialists, and especially children to incorporate water conservation into their ethics. She stated that only in this manner will we be able to provide a better and safer environment.
Anandiben Patel, the Governor of Uttar Pradesh, stated that "we need to march ahead in the field of water conservation and ensure that the future of our children is water secure." Yogi Adityanath, the Chief Minister of Uttar Pradesh, graced the event with his presence and praised the successful start of the 7th India Water Week - 2022. He enlightened and motivated the arena toward water security with his valuable insights. He echoed the noble message of 'Jal Hai to Jeevan Hai' and stated that the state of UP has an adequate supply of both ground and surface water.
In his address to the conclave, Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, Minister of Jal Shakti said, “Despite coming from different backgrounds, it is worth noting that we all join hands today to address the issue of water conservation. Water conservation and management is a comprehensive and global effort. The India Water Week event is a one-of-a-kind effort to bring these insights together on one platform." He also declared his vision of ensuring 100% water availability across the country by 2024 and urged citizens to join the movement and make it a 'Jan Aandolan' for a water-secure India.
Akli Tudu, Water Warrior, Jharkhand & Smt. Hira ben, Water Warrior, Bhuj, Gujarat described their experiences with water conservation in their areas, citing various initiatives, cases of rejuvenation, and crops grown in command areas.
The Plenary session was held later in the first day, and was presided over by Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, Union Minister for Jal Shakti. Shoimzoda Jamshed, Republic of Tajikistan's First Deputy Minister of Energy and Water Resources, Maryprisca Winfred Mahundi Tanzania's Minister of Water, Dr. Asit K. Biswas, Visiting Distinguished Prof. University of Glasgow, A. D. Mohile, Former Chairman, Central Water Commission, and Mark Smith, Director General, IMWI participated in the session and discussed their perspectives on water security and conservation, as well as the challenges of climate change, among other topics.
The discussions focused on strategies for water development and management in the evolutionary process, water security concerns, conducting serious reviews of water-related security concerns after scientific analysis, and action plan implementation, so that water can be proven to be an agent of peace rather than water wars.
Following that, Shoimzoda Jamshed, First Deputy Minister of Energy and Water Resources, Republic of Tajikistan, Maryprisca Winfred Mahundi, Dy. Minister of Water, Tanzania, and other senior officials inaugurated the Exhibition at the 7th edition of India Water Week 2022 in the gracious presence of Union Minister of Jal Shakti Gajendra Singh Shekhawat.
