Comprehensive Water Resources Management Plan is the need of the hour- Uma Bharti Website of National Water Mission Launched Union Minister for Water Resources, River Development and Ganga Rejuvenation Sushri Uma Bharti has stressed the need for comprehensive water resources management plan for the entire nation. Chairing the 2nd meeting of the Advisory Board of National Water Mission in New Delhi today, the Minister said that such a plan is very much necessary to meet the challenges of drought and should be finalized in consultations with state governments. Sushri Bharti said that public participation is a prerequisite for the success of any such plan. The Minister also launched the web portal (nationalwatermission.gov.in) of National Water Mission on the occasion. Union Minister of state for Water Resources, River Development and Ganga Rejuvenation Prof. Sanwar Lal Jat said that farmer has to be told about the alternatives for excessive use of ground water for irrigation purpose. He said while recommending change in pattern of crops it is necessary to understand its economics. Prof. Jat also launched the logo of NWM on the occasion. The website of NWM will be a one point source for providing comprehensive information on water resources as well as various activities being under taken by the NWM. The website has integrated information on water sector (surface water, ground water and waste water) in the Ministry of Water Resources, River Development and Ganga Rejuvenation, other central Ministries/organizations and state governments concerned. This site also provides the link to the India-WRIS, Central Water Commission, Central Ground Water Board and other Central/State government organizations. The contents have been grouped systematically under drop down menu bars, allowing for easy navigation. Policy intervention, State Specific Action Plan (SSAP), Demonstration projects, vulnerable and over-exploited areas. Integrated water resources management, study and research, New initiatives, MoWR organization, other Ministries, State Water Resources Departments and collaborations are some of the important sub heads. Shri Nikhilesh Jha, Mission Director, NWM gave a detailed account of the website and efforts made in designing it by NIC. He appreciated the efforts of NWM and NIC officials in the development of website. Samir/jk
