Bhopal, June 7 (IANS). Madhya Pradesh is fast emerging as a global example in water conservation. Its ambitious Jal Ganga Augmentation Drive is transforming from a government initiative to a people’s movement driven by public participation.
Launched by Chief Minister Mohan Yadav, the campaign is rejuvenating rivers, ponds and traditional water sources while gaining international recognition.
The recently concluded “Sadanira Samagam” at Bharat Bhawan, Bhopal showcased how water conservation can be meaningfully linked with India’s cultural heritage.
The seven-day event was attended by diplomats from Cyprus, Fiji, Mexico, Nepal, Trinidad and Tobago and Ecuador and praised the Madhya Pradesh model as an important response to the global challenge.
Several envoys expressed interest in replicating this initiative in their countries, underscoring its international relevance.
Cyprus High Commissioner Evagoras Vryonides described the water crisis as a serious global challenge and stressed the importance of public awareness. He also announced that a cultural troupe from Cyprus will perform in Bhopal later this month.
Fiji’s High Commissioner Jagannath Sami highlighted climate change as a serious concern and noted the historical ties between India and Fiji, noting that both countries share common priorities in protecting the environment and human life.
Vanessa Adrian of the Mexican Embassy appreciated the effort to link water conservation with cultural heritage, emphasizing that both India and Mexico, inheritors of ancient civilizations, should cooperate to find common solutions.
Nepal’s First Secretary Deepak Porkhire spoke of responsibility towards nature and noted cultural similarities between India and Nepal, commenting that his visit gave him a sense of belonging.
Chandradath Singh of Trinidad and Tobago lauded the initiative to express environmental concerns through cultural expression, while Ecuador’s Deputy Chief of Mission Jorge Vinicio Anarango announced that his country will soon organize a “Sadanira Sangam”, inspired by Madhya Pradesh’s efforts.
The campaign has completed work on over 212,000 water structures against the target of 366,000. By combining cultural heritage with environmental responsibility, Madhya Pradesh is setting a benchmark in water self-reliance.
–IANS
SAK/DKP
