New Delhi, Sep 26
Jal Shakti Minister C.R. Patil on Friday inaugurated the 6th edition of 'Nadi Utsav', highlighting the collective responsibility for preserving rivers for future generations.
Reiterating the government's commitment to fight pollution and conserve rivers, he said, "Work is being carried out at three levels - short-term, mid-term, and long-term - towards river conservation. Under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, significant efforts are being undertaken through Water Vision@2047."
He asserted the significance of rivers in sustaining communities and shaping India's cultural ethos and emphasised the need for collective responsibility in preserving rivers for future generations, said an official statement.
"India is a land of rivers. The world's finest river, the Ganga, flows in India. It is our duty not to pollute our rivers," said the Minister.
Highlighting the cultural significance of rivers, he said that rivers are not merely resources but the very current of our emotions and culture. He cautioned that human intervention has caused immense damage to rivers, and their conservation is a shared responsibility. He also commended the Indira Gandhi National Centre for the Arts (IGNCA), Ministry of Culture, for the continued organisation of Nadi Utsav.
The first day of the three-day festival saw the commencement of the National Seminar on 'Riverscape Dynamics: Changes and Continuity', which brought together eminent scholars and experts to share perspectives on the cultural, ecological, and artistic dimensions of rivers.
More than 300 research papers were received in connection with the seminar, of which 45 will be presented during the sessions. The segment is being held in collaboration with the English Department of the University of Delhi.
Running parallel to the seminar, the 'My River Story' Documentary Film Festival presented its opening screenings, featuring thought-provoking films including 'Gotakhors: Disappearing Diving Communities', 'River Man of India', 'Arth Ganga', 'Yamuna's Sewage Treatment Plant', 'Cauvery – River of Life' and others.
These films shed light on ecological concerns, traditional practices, and the deep-rooted human connection with river systems, highlighting how rivers continue to shape lives and landscapes.
Nadi Utsav showcases a profound dialogue between tradition and contemporary practices, ensuring that communities remain connected to their riverine roots.
— IANS
Reader Comments
Good to see the government focusing on river conservation. But implementation is key - we've heard many promises before. Hope this leads to actual clean rivers, not just seminars.
The documentary festival sounds amazing! Rivers are indeed part of our cultural DNA. In our village, every festival is connected to the river. We must preserve this heritage for our children.
As someone who's visited India multiple times, I've seen both the beauty and pollution of Indian rivers. This holistic approach combining culture, ecology and community involvement is impressive. More countries should learn from this.
While I appreciate the effort, I wish there was more focus on holding industries accountable for river pollution. Common people alone cannot solve this problem. Strict enforcement is needed against polluting factories.
Nadi Utsav is a great platform to educate youth about river conservation. Our ancient texts have always emphasized river worship - time to bring back that respect in practical ways. Jai Ganga Maiya! 🕉ï¸
The 'My River Story' documentary festival is such a creative approach! Storytelling can create emotional connections that statistics cannot. Hope these films reach schools and colleges across India.
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