Jal Shakti Minister CR Paatil on Wednesday conducted a comprehensive review of the research activities at the Centres of Excellence located at IIT-BHU and IIT-Delhi. These centres, established by the Ministry of Jal Shakti, are spearheading innovative and technical research aimed at addressing India’s critical water-related challenges.
Paatil praised the efforts of the institutions in advancing water security, river rejuvenation, and sustainable environmental practices. He highlighted the Centre’s role in driving science-backed solutions aligned with national priorities. “Under the leadership of Hon’ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi ji, continuous emphasis is being placed on innovation and technical research in key areas such as water management, river rejuvenation, and environmental protection,” the Minister wrote on X.
During the review, researchers presented a series of integrated initiatives. Among them was a comprehensive river rejuvenation plan that not only focuses on ecological restoration but also incorporates a revenue generation model to ensure financial sustainability. The innovations featured advanced solutions such as integrated stormwater and wastewater management, modernisation of sewage treatment infrastructure, and reuse of treated water and sludge for productive applications.
Recently, in one of noteworthy event was the introduction of a Decision Support System (DSS) powered by hydrological and hydrodynamic modelling. This system's goal is to assist planners and policymakers in making decisions in real time so that water resources can be managed more intelligently and effectively. The centres also showcased state-of-the-art Smart Monitoring Technologies, including fingerprint analysis techniques for tracking chemical and non-microbial pollutants. These tools aim to improve water quality monitoring and more accurately identify contamination sources.
Also Read: INDIA bloc backs judge ouster over cash row, likely in monsoon
The study emphasises sustainable methods for managing small rivers while addressing groundwater-surface water dynamics, with a focus on River-Aquifer (RA) exchanges, which are crucial to maintaining regional water balances. The programme also integrates carbon-neutral and water-positive principles across all interventions. Each project is assessed for its carbon and water footprints to ensure long-term environmental sustainability.
Capacity building is another key pillar, with new academic courses under development. These aim to equip researchers and practitioners with global sustainable solutions and offer international exposure. Describing the visit and presentations as a matter of "joy and pride", Paatil reaffirmed the government’s commitment to environmentally sound, innovation-driven strategies for safeguarding India’s water resources and revitalising its rivers.
Also Read: BJP MP Dubey hits out at Raj Thackeray over MNS violence
Follow us
