ODISHA RIVER CONFERENCE SPARKS COLLECTIVE ACTION FOR CONSERVATION

ANGUL, Odisha: The 4th Odisha River Conference, held on March 21–22 in Angul, concluded with a strong resolve to enhance river conservation education across all societal sectors. The event aimed at addressing the urgent need to revive the region’s deteriorating river ecosystems. Organised by Water Initiatives and the Foundation for Ecological Security (FES) along with 53 global partners, the conference coincided with the International Day of Action for Rivers and World Water Day, drawing over 150 participants for two days of comprehensive discussions.

The conference was inaugurated by veteran Sarvodaya leader, Krishna Mohanty, who highlighted the importance of perceiving rivers as living entities that require respect, care, and nurturing. Emphasis was also placed on involving youth in the conservation movement, with the Youth4Water campaign, initiated during the 3rd Odisha River Conference, continuing its momentum.

Swapnasri Sarangi of FES noted the collaborative effort of the 53 partnering organisations committed to securing a water-secure future amidst climate change challenges. The conference featured a mix of general and technical sessions, focusing on the interconnectedness of rivers with other ecosystems like forests, floodplains, and grasslands.

Notable speakers included Shubha Kulkarni from the Living Rivers Foundation, Steve Lockett from the Mahseer Trust, and Prof Nidhi Nagabhatla from the United Nations University, among others. Discussions ranged from the critical role of rivers in livelihoods, cultures, and economies to the collective approach required for effective river education and youth engagement in conservation efforts.

The conference also honoured individuals and groups for their contributions to water conservation. The Odisha Jala Joddha Sammana 2024 was awarded to farmer leader Saroj Mohanty, while the Budanpipali Community Forest Protection Committee received the Ajira Bhagiratha Sammanna 2024 for their work in forest conservation and water body recharge. Additionally, the 1st Youth4Water ‘Water & Climate Impact Award’ was presented to Urmila Behera for her grassroots conservation efforts.

The event concluded with a river rally on World Water Day, emphasising the communal and individual commitment to river cleanup and conservation. This rally included local students and underscored the importance of education in river and forest conservation.

Ranjan Panda, the convenor of Water Initiatives, stressed the need for collective action and broader engagement to reverse the declining state of rivers. By bringing together communities, experts, and especially the youth, the conference aimed to foster a robust, collaborative approach to river conservation in Odisha and beyond.

Key highlights

• Sarvodaya leader emphasised rivers as living entities, urging respect, care, and youth involvement.
• 53 partners committed to securing water-secure future amidst climate change challenges.
• Awards were presented to individuals and groups for water, forest conservation efforts.