World Water Day was celebrated at ICAR- Indian Institute of Water Management, Bhubaneswar on 22-03-2018 jointly by ICAR-Indian Institute of Water Management and International Water Management Institute, New Delhi focusing the theme on 'Nature for water'. Dr. T. Mohapatra, Secretary (DARE) & DG, ICAR graced the occasion as Chief Guest. While addressing the gathering, Dr. Mohapatra urged upon the stakeholders, who are working in water management sector to take responsibility for rejuvenating the ponds in the state of Odisha, which ultimately can bring diversity in crop production and usher ultimately towards doubling the farmers' income by 2022. While gracing the occasion as Guest of Honour, Shri. P. K. Jena, IAS, Principal Secretary, Dept. of Water Resources, Govt. of Odisha talked on importance of constructing series of check dams, which can help in augmenting the groundwater resources. Dr. A. K. Sikka, IWMI India representative and Dr. S. K. Chaudhari, ADG (S&WM), NRM Division, New Delhi shared their concerns for rapid decline of groundwater resources in many parts of the country and urged upon for natural way of preserving the water resources for bringing sustainability in crop production. During the occasion, total 10 progressive farmers from different parts of Odisha were felicitated for adopting efficient water management technologies developed by the Institute.

Dr. T. Mohapatra, Secretary (DARE) & DG, ICAR addressing the gathering

Woman farmer felicitated for adopting efficient water management techniques