Dimapur, Nov. 16 (EMN): A four-day residential training on Jal Jeevan, organised by the University of Science and Technology Meghalaya (USTM) and supported by the Ministry of Jal Shakti, commenced on Wednesday at Hotel Theja Fort, Dimapur.
A DIPR report stated that the special guest and vice chancellor of USTM, Prof. GD Sarma, has expressed optimism that the training would set up a new game plan to bring the state of Nagaland to become the second state in the country next to Goa in providing potable water to every household.
Sarma pointed out that providing water to every household is necessary as 80% of the diseases are water-borne. He urged the gathering to know how to save, conserve natural water and supply quality water as water plays an important role in the maintenance of the health and economy of the state.
He stated that the Northeastern states are blessed with sufficient rainwater. He, however, stated that due to deforestation, especially during the rainy season, the content of iron is not safe to consume directly.
Sarma also said that due to the increasing population, the groundwater pressure has drastically decreased.
Appealing to all citizens to protect the natural sources instead of depending on or using treatment sources, he said that to achieve the target, one should involve personally and maintain records and details of funds saying, with proper planning, commitment, and monitoring the centre would grant funds.
Highlighting on the objective of the training, nodal officer of KRC USTM, Dr. Nibedita Paul, stated that Jal Jeevan Shakti was launched on August 15, 2019. He stated that the mission aims to enable every household in villages to have Functional Household Tap Connection (FHTC).
Nibedita pointed out that the objective of the training was to assist, empower and facilitate the planning of participatory rural water supply for ensuring potable drinking water.
She urged the participants to motivate and mobilise their community and instill a sense of ownership in the village community. She stated that the training would focus on mitigation of the issues faced by villagers. She added that awareness of various aspects and the significance of safe drinking water and involvement of stakeholders in a manner that makes water everyone's business would also be discussed during the training.
Executive engineer of PHED (Rural) Dimapur, Nirie E Nisa, delivered the keynote address at the inaugural programme and EE PHED (Urban), Bendangtola, proposed vote of thanks.