GANGTOK,: Rural Development deputy director Dr. Subash Dhakal has been conferred with the prestigious Jal Prahari Samman Award 2024 during a special ceremony held at New Maharashtra Sadan, New Delhi, recently.
Dr. Dhakal was one of the 37 distinguished water conservationists from across the country to be honoured with the award for his exceptional contributions to water conservation and management, informs a press release.
The award was presented by Minister for Jal Shakti C.R. Patel in recognition of pioneering work in Springshed Management in the State of Sikkim.
The Springshed initiative, which focuses on reviving drying springs in the Himalayan region, has gained national and international recognition as a model for water conservation in mountainous areas.
Dr. Dhakal has been instrumental in implementing the Springshed Management programme as an adaptation strategy to combat the drying of springs, a critical source of water for rural communities in the Himalayas.
The initiative, which started in the villages of Sikkim, has evolved into a nationally recognized programme under the Department of Land Resources, Government of India, with the potential to become a major national initiative in the near future.
The Springshed Initiative has not only contributed significantly to water security in Sikkim but has also set an example for other mountainous regions across the world facing similar challenges due to climate change and ecological degradation.
Sikkim's success in Springshed Management has positioned the State as a resource hub in the country for innovative water conservation practices, the release mentions.
The recognition of Dr. Dhakal’s work is a proud moment for the State of Sikkim and underscores the importance of community-driven solutions to address the pressing water challenges faced by mountainous and rural regions, the release adds.
It also highlights the critical role of effective water management strategies in adapting to climate change and ensuring sustainable water resources for future generations.
The Rural Development department, Sikkim government, has become a key player in the national effort to conserve and manage water resources.
The Springshed Management programme’s success is a testament to the commitment, innovation, and hard work of Dr. Dhakal and his team in addressing the challenges of water scarcity in the Himalayas, the release mentions.