Ahmedabad: India’s water-security challenge needs to be addressed through a combination of policy reforms, technology, sustainable finance and community participation, experts said at a two-day national conclave on water management that concluded in Ahmedabad on Sunday.The ‘Bharat Discourses on Water @2047’, organised by Udgam Charitable Trust in association with the Center for Water Peace (CWP), Dr Syama Prasad Mookerjee Research Foundation (SPMRF) and i-Hub, brought together policymakers, scientists, researchers, water experts, innovators and grassroots leaders to deliberate on a roadmap for a water-secure India by 2047.The second day of the conclave focused on translating awareness about water conservation into action. A research colloquium on ‘From Water Challenges to National Opportunities: Research, Innovation and Pathways for Bharat @2047’ discussed the need to strengthen research, academic participation and innovation to tackle water security and climate-resilience challenges.A session on water governance and public policy stressed the need for greater coordination between government institutions, communities and other stakeholders to address India’s diverse water-related challenges. Discussions also focused on the potential of startups and emerging technologies to improve water conservation, management and sustainable utilization.The conclave also examined the role of green finance in developing climate-resilient water infrastructure and supporting conservation initiatives.Padma Shri,Bharat Bhushan Tyagi, said water security should be treated as an investment in the collective future. “Development must move in harmony with nature, and every solution must strengthen communities while protecting the resources on which future generations depend,” he said.Padma Shri Sethpal Singh underlined the importance of public participation in conservation efforts. He said every village, household and community should view water as a shared responsibility and make conservation a way of life.
