On March 22, World Water Day, a national conference titled “Water for Climate Resilience – North East India” took place at the University of Science and Technology Meghalaya (USTM). Organized by the Nature Care Initiative (NCI), a group focused on socio-environmental issues based in New Delhi, the event teamed up with USTM’s Departments of Zoology and Earth Science. This conference, aimed at promoting discussions on water management in the context of climate resilience, saw support from the publication Himalayan News Chronicles.
The gathering featured prominent speakers such as Durga Prasad Mishra, a specialist in water technology, and Prof. Dr. Baldev Raj Gupta, a respected journalist and educator. Other notable attendees included James Kharkongor from the MegArise Project, USTM’s Vice Chancellor Prof. G.D. Sharma, and several experts and faculty members from various institutions.
One of the highlights was the announcement of the National Water Award 2024 recipients from Meghalaya. Awards went to Jibansius Ramshon, Lamluti Langstang, and Smt. Pretish S. Sangma, all recognized for their extraordinary contributions to water conservation in their communities. Their efforts emphasize how grassroots initiatives can lead to remarkable sustainability in local environments.
In his keynote address, Prof. Gupta reflected on the historical significance of water, underscoring its essential role in human civilization. He noted how water has been a source of life, inspired stories, and shaped settlements throughout history. Supporting this sentiment, Kharkongor praised NGOs like NCI for identifying local heroes who contribute to conservation, suggesting that this recognition may motivate further government-led conservation efforts.
Mishra noted the critical need to maintain natural water bodies, arguing for preservation over mere afforestation. His points echo a growing consensus in environmental science: protecting existing ecosystems is often more effective than trying to create new ones.
Professor G.D. Sharma pointed out how conferences like this encourage students to actively engage in environmental issues. The event included lively discussions, where students shared insights on local ecological gems like the Hanging Bridge of Meghalaya and the cleanest village in Asia, Mawlynnong.
Such engagements mirror trends seen in broader social media conversations, where young people increasingly advocate for environmental protection and sustainability. Online platforms are alive with youthful enthusiasm for conservation, often mobilizing peers to join community clean-ups or local campaigns.
Since its inception in 2014, Nature Care Initiative has actively addressed various environmental challenges across India. Their commitment plays a crucial role in fostering a healthier ecological balance, which is more important than ever. With water scarcity becoming a pressing issue globally, events like this conference not only raise awareness but also help cultivate a generation ready to tackle future environmental hurdles.
For more information on community water conservation efforts, you can check resources from the United Nations.
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