SHILLONG, Feb 7: To get the ball rolling, a curtain-raiser and pre-conclave event was held at the State Convention Centre here on Wednesday in a build-up to the International Water Conclave slated for February 9-10, wherein experts from across the globe will deliberate over making water resources sustainable.
During the pre-conclave event, Quiz, painting and slogan-writing competitions on the theme of ‘water, life and future’ were organised.
A PSA video finale was held at St Anthony’s College.
Speaking at the curtain raiser, Water Resources Minister Comingone Ymbon said that the conclave underscores the need for concentrated action to safeguard water resources for future generations.
According to him, the conclave provides a uniform platform for such collaboration and exchange of ideas.
He stressed upon the need to collaborate across borders, share knowledge and best practices, and harness the power of technology and innovation to address the complex challenges facing the world’s water resources.
“During the course of the next couple days, the experts and practitioners from various parts of the world will deliberate on how to improve the water resources and make them sustainable,” he said.
Ymbon added that water is the essence of life and it has been an integral part of the state’s culture and tradition. “We are faced with the reality of war, grappling with water scarcity, pollution, and climate change. These challenges transcend borders and demand a collective response from all of us. In Meghalaya, we have recognised the importance of sustainable water management as a cornerstone of our development agenda through innovative policies, community-driven initiatives, and partnerships with stakeholders,” the minister said.
According to him, the state government is trying to ensure equitable access to clean and safe water for all while preserving our natural ecosystem.
Meanwhile, Additional Chief Secretary in-charge Water Resources, P Shakeel Ahammed has encouraged younger generation to keep the spirit of conservation in their hearts and minds, as what is left of nature was once conserved by the forefathers.
“If we don’t save our planet, if we don’t protect water, if we don’t protect nature, the coming generation could have a difficult future. To prevent that, I think we need to understand the value of nature’s nectar — that is water. The only way to live in the future would be reducing usage, recycling water, rejuvenating resources, and respecting water, nothing less than this because the demand has to be reduced as the supply is almost stagnant or may decrease. Demand Management and water budgeting are what is required, along with water recycling and reuse,” he said.
Commissioner and Secretary, Soil and Water Conservation department, Dr Joram Beda, said, “As far as the Jal Jeevan Mission is considered, we have crossed 50% of the functional household tap connections. Still, a significant number of our population has to walk significant steps from the water sources to their residences. We thought it fitting to have an International Water conference to stamp our leadership roles in water conservation. There is no doubt that Meghalaya has a leadership position in water and soil conservation.”
Before the commencement of the curtain raiser, the event saw enthusiastic participation in the various finals by the pre-conclave contests.
Participants expressed optimism regarding the forthcoming International Water Conclave and emphasised the significance of the ongoing cooperation in addressing water challenges. Additionally, a water exhibition was held concurrently.
