Successful curtain raiser sets stage for International Water Conclave 2024

Syllad | The Rising MeghalayaFebruary 7, 2024

The prelude to the eagerly awaited International Water Conclave 2024 concluded on Wednesday with a successful launch event at the State Convention Centre in Shillong. Attended by esteemed dignitaries, experts, and stakeholders, the event paved the way for substantive discussions and collaborations aimed at tackling water challenges in hilly regions.

The launch event commenced with great enthusiasm, graced by the presence of distinguished figures such as the Minister of the Water Resources Department, Coming One Ymbon, Additional Chief Secretary Dr. Shakil P. Ahammed, IAS, Commissioner & Secretary Dr. Joram Beda, IAS, and SC Sadhu, IAS, Secy. Water Resources, alongside other key officials, experts, and stakeholders from the water conservation sector.

In his inspiring keynote address, Minister Coming One Ymbon emphasised the importance of water as the essence of life and highlighted the urgent need for collective action to address challenges such as water scarcity, pollution, and climate change. He underscored Meghalaya’s commitment to sustainable water management and called for global collaboration and innovation to safeguard water resources.

Dr. Shakil P. Ahammed, IAS, Additional Chief Secretary, urged the younger generation to embrace conservation efforts, stressing the importance of reducing water usage, recycling, and rejuvenating resources for a sustainable future.

Dr. Joram Beda, IAS, Commissioner & Secretary, Soil & Water Conservation Department, highlighted Meghalaya’s leadership in water conservation and emphasized the need for continued efforts, especially regarding the Jal Jeevan Mission and providing functional household tap connections to the population.

Prior to the launch, participants engaged eagerly in pre-conclave contests, expressing optimism about the upcoming International Water Conclave and emphasizing the importance of ongoing cooperation in addressing water challenges. A water exhibition, featuring displays from various departments such as the Central Ground Water Board, Meghalaya State Pollution Control Board, Central Water Commission, Brahmaputra Board, Water Resources Department, SCSTE and MINR provided additional insights into water management initiatives.

As the launch event concluded, participants departed with a renewed commitment to advancing water conservation efforts in hilly regions, setting the stage for fruitful deliberations at the International Water Conclave 2024.