Energy and Public Relations Minister Rajendra Shukla has said that the issue of environmental conservation coupled with development has always been challenging. Shukla stressed the need for launching mass movement for environmental conservation, especially Narmada river’s conservation.
The Minister was addressing a one-day State-level workshop on “Role of NGOs in Conservation of Narmada River through Sustainable Farming” held by Madhya Pradesh Jan-Abhiyan Parishad here on Friday. Magsaysay Awardee and eminent environmentalist and water conservation expert Rajendra Singh was also present on the occasion.
The Minister said that Narmada river is considered lifeline of Madhya Pradesh. Existence of Narmada is linked with existence of the state. Shukla stressed the need for adopting message of water and energy conservation in practical life. Shukla said that Madhya Pradesh has carved out an identity in organic farming in the country in recent years. Madhya Pradesh has 40 percent share in country’s total organic farming.
He laid emphasis on promoting organic farming in especially in villages on the banks of Narmada. He said that conservation of tributaries of Narmada is also essential. He urged representatives of organisations linked with Jan-Abhiyan Parishad to create awareness about it in society.
Water conservation expert Rajendra Singh said that conservation of rivers has been mainstay of ancient Indian culture. India remained world guru as long as water, women and rivers were respected in the country. He said that due to Narmada river, Madhya Pradesh is known as natural resources rich state in the country. Singh said that every citizen of the state should resolve to prevent flow of filthy effluents to Narmada and all other rivers in the state. State’s rivers will remain clean and conserved only through it.
He criticised construction of big dams on rivers in the name of development. He said that we must understand natural science of rivers. Development will be sustainable and free of destruction if we ensure development in tandem with nature. Singh stressed the need for enlightening and organizing society for river conservation work. He highlighted role of government, society and seers in reviving rivers. He also referred to recent natural disasters.
Vice-President of Jan-Abhiyan Parishad Pradeep Pandey said that harmony can be maintained in society only through creative values. He informed about works to be undertaken in future for conservation of Narmada river. At the outset, Executive Director of Jan-Abhiyan Parishad Shri Umesh Sharma informed that the organisation has been doing Narmada conservation work since 2009.
Narmada river flows through 16 districts and 51 development blocks in the state. There are 1107 ghats, 766 nullahs, 263 ashrams and 290 temples on the banks of Narmada. Shri Sharma also informed about Parishad’s activities.
Chairman of Madhya Pradesh Pollution Control Board NP Shukla also spoke on the occasion. District Coordinators of Jan-Abhiyan Parishad and representatives of voluntary organisations attended the workshop.