The city of Kanpur, Uttar Pradesh resonated with echoes of conservation, resilience, and empowerment on September 22, 2023, as it hosted the fourth ‘Women and Water Dialogue Series’ at the Boat Club, Kanpur. This congregation, organised by the National Mission for Clean Ganga (NMCG) and GIZ India, was a platform to emphasise the importance of women in the water sector.
Ms. Anupama Madhok Sud, Director & Editor, Water Digest moderated the session highlighting three significant motives of the dialogue – to draw attention to the role of women in the water sector, to strengthen participation and engagement of women in the water sector and to motivate and empower women so that they can get involved in decision making.
Numerous speakers shared their experiences and insights about cleaning and conserving water bodies, highlighting how women can play a substantial role as protectors of these vital environmental resources.
Dr Anjana, Advisor Water Resource management GIZ India, opened the dialogue with her special address, setting a motivational and thoughtful tone for the proceedings. She articulated the belief that women, with their inherent nurturing capacities and significant influence within their communities, stand at the forefront of leading and participating in initiatives that aim to protect and revitalize our water bodies. Dr. Anjana emphasised that enabling and empowering women in this sector not only facilitates environmental conservation but also propels societal development by leveraging the unique perspectives and capabilities that women bring to the table. She expressed deep gratitude to the local administration for orchestrating such a vital and
enlightening initiative, acknowledging the power of these collaborative events in mobilising broader communities for active participation in conserving our rivers and water bodies for future generations.
Pooja Shrivastava, the Secretary of Kanpur Ploggers, emphasised her success in mobilising a network of more than 500 volunteers. She highlighted the critical environmental concerns, such as climate change, that could have adverse consequences for future generations if immediate action is not taken. she further elucidated the importance of Ganga Ghat cleaning and the myriad challenges encountered.
Ms. Astha Dwivedi,Child development Project Officer( Integrated Child Development Services) spoke about society being mostly led by men and insisted that having women in decision-making can bring change. She emphasised the importance of ground-level employees, like as Anganwadi workers, and their connections to people in getting more people willing to volunteer.
Ms. Suman Lata Chief Executive Officer, Integral Development Foundation, Kanpur emphasised about Jal Chaupal and role of women in water budgeting. She also highlighted that numerous members have adopted rainwater harvesting at their residences, contributing significantly to water conservation.
Ms. Shalija Rawat, Associate NCC Officer shared the essence of women’s leadership in water conservation initiatives and the empowerment through awareness and education in communities. She emphasised how women could be the harbingers of change by disseminating knowledge on environmental conservation, thus shaping an eco-conscious society.
Ms. Aarti Kushwaha who spearheads Ganga Doot Youth Leader, highlighted the significant connection of Ganga Doots with the work of Ganga cleaning and their role in propagating awareness amongst citizens. She shared the transformative journey of women involved and the subsequent support and acknowledgment they received from their families, marking progress in their noble endeavours.
Ms. Priya Aggarwal, FO SMCG, expressed heartfelt gratitude to the dedicated workers on the field, sharing her enriching experiences and the influential journey with Namami Gange.
Mrs. Arti Jaiswal, DOPRD, Kanpur Nagar concluded the session by discussing the work of Mahila Mangal Dal in water conservation across different villages.
Dr Anjana Pant Advisor Water Resources Management, GIZ India, expressed her gratitude, concluding the event on a reflective and hopeful note.
Mr. Ashish Jain, Sub-Divisional Forest Officer( SDFO) who was also present during women and water dialogue, expressed appreciation for the noteworthy shift in women’s perspectives towards water conservation. He assured that the forest department is prepared to provide support in all future avenues. Mr. Shashank Shukla, the esteemed District Project Officer at Namami Gange Programme, Ministry of Jal Shakti, Government of India, dignified the event, subtly reinforcing the government’s dedication to elevating and recognizing the pivotal roles of women in nurturing water conservation and catalysing river rejuvenation initiatives
This eclectic mix of discussions, reflections, insights, and resolutions shaped a narrative of empowerment and responsibility, positioning women as torchbearers leading the path to a cleaner and healthier rivers, cultivating a sense of stewardship and responsibility for the environment, and resonating a hope for a sustainable future in the hearts of many.
