SRINAGAR: A one-day seminar marking World Water Day 2026 was organised jointly by The Institution of Engineers (India), Jammu Kashmir State Centre, and the Jal Shakti Department, bringing together engineers, policymakers, and domain experts to deliberate on the theme “Water and Gender.”
The seminar focused on the intersection of water management and gender equity, underscoring the need for sustainable and inclusive approaches to water governance in the region.
The programme commenced with an introduction by Honorary Secretary IEI JK State Centre, Er Irfan Ahmad Pleshi, who emphasised the importance of integrating gender perspectives into water resource planning and infrastructure development.
In his welcome address, Chairman IEI JK State Centre, Er Ferdous Ahad Bhat highlighted the global significance of World Water Day and presented a regional perspective on water resource management. He stressed the urgent need to modernise water supply infrastructure, including strengthening transmission and distribution systems to reduce losses, and adopting SCADA-based monitoring for real-time operational efficiency.
Bhat also underlined the role of the Institution of Engineers as a professional body in supporting development through technical discourse, knowledge-sharing, and capacity building. He said such platforms help bridge gaps between engineering practice, governance, and societal needs, particularly in critical sectors like water resources.
The technical session featured presentations by Er. Zaid Mushtaq, Er Naveed Rasool, Executive Engineer at Jammu and Kashmir Lakes and Waterways Development Authority, and Er Antreena Anjum, Superintending Engineer, Jal Shakti Department, Kashmir. Er Riyaz Ahmad Bhat, Superintending Engineer (OSD), also addressed the gathering, followed by an interactive session with participants.
The valedictory session was attended by Chief Engineer Jal Shakti Department (PHE), Kashmir, Er Rakesh Kumar Gupta, who highlighted the need to strengthen institutional mechanisms and improve urban water management systems.
Addressing the seminar, Anshul Garg, Divisional Commissioner Kashmir, stressed that sustainable water management must be treated as a governance priority requiring inter-departmental coordination, community participation, and long-term planning. He emphasised that equitable access to water, particularly for women, is central to inclusive development.
Ahsan Pardesi also addressed the gathering, highlighting the importance of policy support, infrastructure development, and public participation in achieving water security and gender equality.
The Chief Guest, Javed Ahmad Rana, Minister for Jal Shakti, joined the seminar virtually and delivered the keynote address. He reiterated the government’s commitment to improving water supply systems, promoting sustainable practices, and ensuring equitable access to water resources, particularly for women and marginalised sections. He also called upon IEI JK State Centre to compile the seminar’s recommendations into a policy brief for government consideration.
On the recommendation of the Jal Shakti Department, Er Riyaz Ahmad Bhat was felicitated for his services in the Jal Jeevan Mission.
The seminar concluded with a vote of thanks, serving as a platform for knowledge exchange and reinforcing the collective commitment towards sustainable water management and gender equity in Jammu and Kashmir.
