The “India Water Forum” (IWF) 2011 that was organized by The Energy and Resources Institute (TERI) with the Ministry of Water Resources, the Department of Drinking Water Supply and the Government of India concluded today with a clarion call to bring water into the global and national agenda in order to meet the challenges of water security posed by the threat of climate change.
In his valedictory address, Dr. RK Pachauri, TERI General Director, re-emphasized that “Effective governance and responsive policies are of paramount importance in defining the course of sustainable water management. The issue of governance is multi-dimensional and a holistic institutional framework that encompasses the social, economic, political and legal structures is essential. Developing an appropriate and responsive policy framework is essential for ensuring water sustainability and adaptability to climate change.”
The India Water forum 2011 addressed the dynamics of water and climate change, and deliberated on significant issues specific to water security, means to resolve the same by investment in natural infrastructure, monitoring efficient usage, water treatment and leveraging eco-friendly technology for water usage that will help in ensuring sustainable development. But, more importantly it emphasized on the fact that water security is not a subject for the future – it is here with us today.
One of the important highlights of the convention was the Indo-German Roundtable Discussion in partnership with Adelphi, on “Water, Climate Change and Conflict in South Asia.” The roundtable discussion focused on the role of climate change in regional conflict situation, which stems from poor water management, regional mistrust and vested interest in the water sector. The session concluded with a resounding approval for a need to build a new framework in order for countries to view water management and cooperation as ‘win-win’ situation and hopefully the focus on climate change would bring these issues to the forefront.
The convention also held a significant corporate dialogue on efficient water management needs in business planning with a focus on the ‘India Water Tool’. Held by the TERI Business Council for Sustainable Development, India, more than 70 senior representatives from the corporate sector and other stakeholders came together at the session. The creation and use of an India Water Tool will support companies’ operations in India through better understanding of water sensitivities and availability, as well as provide information on potential water risks. The India Water Tool is based on the Global Water Tool (GWT), acknowledged as one of the best tools to assess corporate water-related risks at a global level and adopted by over 300 companies globally. Its development will also pave the way for potential watershed-level dialogues that could help promote collective action on shared water risks within different river basins in India.
This global convention showcased advanced knowledge and successful technologies developed in different counties and regions, with the aim of promoting international knowledge network and partnerships for addressing challenges related to water security and climate change. Through this global platform India will take a lead in addressing water resource management and governance challenges which will help the society move together in a common direction and develop strategies and solutions that are application on a global scale.
