By Kavita Sharma
Photo Credit: The Suncity News
Patna, April 7, 2026: A two-day state-level workshop on “Groundwater Management and Sustainable Irrigation Practices’ commenced on Tuesday at Jal Bhavan in Patna under the aegis of the Minor Water Resources Department.
The workshop was inaugurated by Department Secretary B. Karthikey Dhanji, Additional Secretary Sangeeta Singh, and Engineer-in-Chief Sunil Kumar, along with other senior officials, by lighting the ceremonial lamp.
Focus on farmers’ welfare and sustainable development in the groundwater management workshop:
Addressing the gathering, Secretary B. Karthikey Dhanji emphasized that the government’s primary objective is to ensure water availability to the last mile of every agricultural field, thereby boosting crop production and enhancing farmers’ income.
He noted that departmental schemes aim not merely at infrastructure creation but at bringing tangible improvements in farmers’ livelihoods.
He stressed that clear vision, effective planning, and robust monitoring are essential to ensure quality implementation of these schemes.
Emphasis on capacity building and innovation:
Highlighting the crucial role of engineers, the Secretary underlined the need for continuous upgradation of their technical and managerial skills.
He stated that the workshop has been organized to familiarize engineers with modern irrigation techniques, emerging technologies, and innovative practices.
He added that with the support of experts and academic institutions, engineers are being provided with advanced, innovation-driven training to make projects more effective and result-oriented.
He also encouraged participants to share regional experiences and openly discuss implementation challenges to arrive at practical, collective solutions.
Importance of water conservation and heritage:
The Secretary also highlighted the cultural and historical significance of traditional water bodies such as ponds and reservoirs, describing them as invaluable assets.
He emphasized that their conservation and scientific utilization can support not only irrigation but also allied activities like fisheries, thereby creating additional income sources.
Citing historical examples, he called for a holistic approach to water management that integrates conservation, sustainability and efficient utilization.
Targets and progress of schemes:
Providing an update on departmental initiatives, he informed that a statewide survey has identified around 6,500 schemes.
Of these, approximately 1,300 schemes were completed during the financial year 2025-26.
The government has set a target to complete the remaining projects over the next five years.
During the workshop, experts and specialists held detailed discussions on several critical aspects, including groundwater assessment, artificial recharge techniques, water conservation measures, improving water-use efficiency, data-driven project planning, sustainable groundwater management, and modern irrigation practices.
Chief Engineer Sunil Kumar welcomed the participants and highlighted the significance of the workshop.
The event witnessed participants from senior officials, scientists, engineers from across the state, and other stakeholders.
Also Read: Shivraj Singh Chouhan unveils roadmap for developed agriculture at Pusa agri-science fair.
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