A lecture on community-based water conservation was organized at the Bhoj Mukt Vishwavidyalaya.

CNN Central News & Network–ITDC India Epress/ITDC News Bhopal: A lecture program on “Community-Based Traditional Water Conservation” was organized at Bhoj Mukt Vishwavidyalaya, Madhya Pradesh. The chief speaker at the event was Padma Shri awardee Umashankar Pandey, recognized for his exemplary work in water conservation, often referred to as the “Waterman”. He has been honored with the Padma Shri by the Indian government and awarded the Jal Yodha Award by the Ministry of Water Resources. The program was presided over by the Chancellor of Bhoj Mukt Vishwavidyalaya, Sanjay Tiwari, and coordinated by the University’s Secretary, Sushil Manderia.

Umashankar Pandey, in his address as the chief speaker, began by introducing the five greatest water warriors of the country. He mentioned Bhagirath, who tirelessly worked to bring the Ganga to Earth, followed by Mother Anusuya, who showed the path of the Mandakini River. He then spoke about King Bhoj, who constructed numerous large lakes including those in Bhopal, followed by Queen Ahilyabai Holkar, who built several ponds and lakes. Pandey emphasized the importance of the ancient book on water science written by King Bhoj nearly 1200 years ago, suggesting that reading it is essential to understanding water.

He remarked, “Water cannot be created, but it can surely be saved.” He advocated for a water revolution, stating that it can only come through a people’s movement. He stressed that with water autonomy, people’s autonomy will follow. Pandey highlighted the need for good deeds, citing the example of Mangal Pandey’s contribution to the freedom struggle. He urged people to save water, plant trees, and create ponds in their fields, stating that this model is being replicated in 1050 villages across the country.

Pandey also drew attention to the water crisis in cities like Bengaluru and Chennai, emphasizing the need for lifestyle changes. He reiterated the importance of water in Indian culture, stating that water is life, it creates prosperity, and it is the source of nectar. He concluded by expressing gratitude to the students, teachers, officers, and staff of the university for their participation in the event, which was organized by the Department of Student Support and Regional Services of Bhoj Mukt Vishwavidyalaya. The program was moderated by senior advisor Sadhana Singh Bisane, with gratitude expressed by the university’s director, Ratan Suryavanshi. The entire university family, including students, teachers, officers, and staff, attended the event.