NITI Aayog today organized a Brainstorming Session and released a Compendium on All-Weather Tap Water Supply in the Higher Reaches of the Himalayas. The session brought together expert participants from the Ministry of Jal Shakti - Department of Drinking Water and Sanitation, Himalayan States of Ladakh, Himachal Pradesh, Academia - IIT Mandi and grassroots organisations working in this sphere in various states. During the session, insightful field level inputs to improve the water security for lives and livelihood were discussed.

During the discussions, emphasis was made for the involvement of the community for interventions made by both Centre and States for water and natural resources conservation. This would help to deepen the community ownership of assets and to ensure water security.  Overcoming the challenges posed by geography, harsh weather, implementation issues, use of technology, data collection & analysis were highlighted. Solutions suggested inter alia included creating sustainable agriculture models, developing agro-forestry, springs rejuvenation, adopting innovative drip based water supply systems & engineering materials for assured water supply. The experts suggested ways to improve the efficiency of service delivery. Capacity building of local community has helped to sustain their involvement. Formal skill recognition mechanism of the communities members involved in such works is required for their improved livelihood and employment opportunities. Experts also suggested for setting up of a Centre of Excellence on Springs for bringing all stakeholders on a single platform for scalable interventions for their rejuvenation and sustenance in long term.

The Compendium launched brings together case studies, innovations, and field experiences from across the Himalayan states showcasing how technology, community engagement, and policy integration can ensure sustainable water supply even in the most challenging terrains.

 

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