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Nagpur to Host ‘Jal Samvad’ and ‘Jal Kranti’ Conferences on May 17-18
Anytime News Network / Pooja Srivastava
Union Road Transport and Highways Minister Nitin Gadkari has urged citizens to transform water conservation into a mass movement to ensure water prosperity in Vidarbha and eliminate the stigma of farmer suicides in the region. Addressing a press conference in Nagpur, Gadkari said that India does not face a shortage of water resources, but rather a lack of proper planning and efficient management.
He announced that the Purti Sinchan Samruddhi Welfare Organisation will organise two major national-level conferences — “Jal Samvad 2026” on May 17 and “Jal Kranti Conference” on May 18 — as part of its silver jubilee celebrations. The events aim to bring together experts, policymakers, social activists and farmers to discuss water conservation, irrigation challenges and sustainable agricultural development.
Gadkari highlighted the importance of organic farming, drip irrigation and the use of artificial intelligence in agriculture for better water management. He also noted that soil excavated from farm ponds in districts such as Akola, Washim and Buldhana has been utilised for national highway construction, contributing to groundwater recharge in western Vidarbha. According to him, farmers in the region have also started adopting improved cropping patterns.
The minister stressed that while NGOs play an important role in water conservation, active public participation is equally essential. He pointed out that river and stream deepening works are currently being carried out through community participation in groundwater-depleted “dark zones” like Warud-Morshi and Katol-Narkhed.
The “Nagpur Jal Samvad 2026” conference will be held at Dr. Vasantrao Deshpande Auditorium on May 17, while the “Jal Kranti Conference” is scheduled for May 18 at Kaviwarya Suryabhat Hall in Reshimbagh. Several prominent personalities, including Aamir Khan, Nana Patekar and Makarand Anaspure, are expected to attend the event. Important books on water conservation and sustainable farming practices will also be released during the celebrations.
