Discussions delved into the ongoing Punatsangchhu-I hydropower project, a flagship collaboration. The talks also assessed bilateral mechanisms for flood management and forecasting, identifying opportunities for upgrades.

Emphasis was placed on fortifying observation networks for hydro-meteorology along boundary rivers, streamlining data sharing on weather and floods, and fostering technical exchanges. The agenda tackled pressing issues like climate variability, GLOFs, and severe weather patterns, advocating for capacity-building programs.

Post-meeting, Rao met Minister Lyonpo Gem Tshering, followed by inspections of critical infrastructure: Punatsangchhu-I and II projects, NCHM headquarters, Chamgang’s 3.5 MLD water purification facility, and a flood station at Wangdue Phodrang.

The engagement reaffirms both countries’ dedication to resilient water governance in common basins. By prioritizing sustainable practices and innovative forecasting, India and Bhutan are setting a model for transboundary resource stewardship, ensuring long-term prosperity and safety for their populations.

Designed to enhance synergy between the Centre and states, the workshop will highlight CWC’s suite of forecasting services and emerging technologies. Participants, including state officials from vulnerable regions, will exchange insights on integrating these tools into local strategies for superior preparedness and response.

Key discussions will cover optimal utilization of CWC’s predictions, supported by partners like the India Meteorological Department (IMD). States are encouraged to present their initiatives, fostering a two-way dialogue that could revolutionize flood management nationwide.

The morning agenda features in-depth reviews of CWC’s forecasting arsenal: from immediate inundation modeling and dam release guidance to long-range outlooks, GLOF surveillance, AI-driven analytics, and rapid-onset flood alerts. Real-world state-CWC collaborations will be highlighted through case studies.

Post-lunch, the focus shifts to streamlining DPR processes for flood control and bank erosion projects. Guidelines will be scrutinized and refined based on stakeholder feedback, aiming for higher project standards and faster approvals.

Wrapping up the day, CWC Chairman Anupam Prasad will lead the valedictory session, distilling action points and roadmaps ahead. The workshop kicks off with an address by Department Secretary V.L. Kanta Rao, drawing top brass from CWC and states.

As climate change intensifies flood risks, this gathering underscores the government’s commitment to proactive water governance, potentially setting new benchmarks in disaster mitigation.

The diverse crowd exceeded 350, featuring academics and students from prominent Delhi University institutions including SPM College, Keshav Mahavidyalaya, Zakir Husain College, and others like IP College for Women and Shivaji College. Journalists, UPSC hopefuls, local residents, and DDA staff added to the mix, creating a rich tapestry of perspectives.

Keynote speaker DDA Vice Chairman Dr. N. Saravana Kumar delved into urban resilience against floods, crediting DDA parks—which span 15% of Delhi’s area—for public well-being. He praised the seven biodiversity parks, a joint effort with Delhi University’s CEMDE, for uplifting living standards and highlighted clearance of Yamuna floodplain encroachments alongside new parks like Bansera and Asita.

Professor CR Babu captivated the audience by linking rivers’ origins to wetlands and warning of the global crisis: 87% lost, survivors dysfunctional. Dr. Shashank Shekhar detailed how floodplain parks manage nutrients, curb pollution, and sustain river health. Adding an economic lens, Professor Yamini Gupta quantified wetlands’ worth at $26.4 trillion, dwarfing several countries’ GDPs.

Wrapping up with flair, the program featured prizes for a photography competition backed by Rajdhani College and Swadhyaya Seva Foundation. Gratitude was expressed by Dr. M. Shah Hussain, followed by a guided walk where attendees marveled at migratory species including Northern Shoveler, Gadwall, and Great Cormorant amid the park’s thriving wetlands.

Dr. Sanjeev emphasized the importance of a strong character to make one’s voice heard. He said he speaks firmly because he believes in what is right. He is accustomed to calling a spade a spade, which often leads to problems for him.

He mentioned that some individuals within his party are trying to create controversies. He stated that he has no problem with Nitish Kumar, who was close to his father and had always supported his entry into politics. However, he feels that some people in the party are unhappy with his work in his constituency. He frequently raises issues in his constituency, which is not well-received by certain individuals.

Addressing the issue of farmers, Dr. Sanjeev highlighted that it is a significant concern in Bihar, affecting people of all castes. He noted that in many places, receipts have not been issued for nine years, causing distress to farmers. They are not receiving compensation for crop damage or benefits from the PM Awas Yojana. Without up-to-date receipts, farmers are unable to access any facilities. Dr. Sanjeev has been raising these issues since 2021 and has sought solutions with the Governor.

Commenting on the government’s actions, Dr. Sanjeev pointed out the recent distribution of funds to laborers for Durga Puja, questioning why such measures were not taken earlier. He also criticized the handling of floods in the state, stating that no audits are conducted despite significant expenditures. He believes that connecting rivers could solve the problem, and the failure to remove silt is intentional because it wastes public funds.

Criticizing the caste census, Dr. Sanjeev questioned its purpose, arguing that knowing the caste provides no real benefit. He opposes it and does not intend to retire from politics. He believes in a different approach and questioned the outcomes of the census. He pointed out that the promise of providing ₹2 lakh to every poor person has not been fulfilled, asking what was achieved by the census. He suggests conducting an economic census instead.

He concluded that the census has been completed, and now everyone is silent. He believes that the results should be displayed. He also mentioned that people in villages are struggling to find jobs, and there has been no improvement in their standard of living. He stated that Bihar has become a state that supplies laborers.