The 7th edition of Ganga Utsav, organized by the National Mission for Clean Ganga (NMCG), was a grand celebration of cultural heritage, environmental commitment, and community involvement. The event was inaugurated by Hon’ble Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways Shri Nitin Gadkari Jialong with Ms. Debashree Mukherjee, Secretary of the Department of Water Resources, River Development & Ganga Rejuvenation, Ministry of Jal Shakti, Shri G. Asok Kumar, Director General, NMCG. In her inaugural address, Ms. Mukherjee emphasized the Ganga’s profound emotional connection to the people of India and the shared responsibility of preserving such invaluable resources. She drew on historical connections, including the links between Ghalib and the Yamuna, to underline the deep cultural and spiritual significance of rivers in India.
The day witnessed the ceremonial release of the 33rd edition of Namami Gange Magazine, a new Chacha Chaudhary comic series, and the "Voyage of Ganga" booklet in collaboration with the National Book Trust (NBT), celebrating Ganga’s journey across India. Additionally, the 2nd edition of the "Ganga Pustak Parikrama" was flagged off, beginning its three-month journey from Gangotri to Gangasagar, crossing cities and towns along the Ganga banks to spread awareness about river conservation.
Integrated Technology
Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways Shri Nitin Gadkaridelivered an impressive address highlighting the three major pillars of society – ethics, ecology and environment and economics. His address highlighted the integral role of the three major pillars in shaping a sustainable future. He emphasised the importance of ecological initiatives and said that good practices and technology are readily available. He outlined two important philosophies for the future – converting knowledge into wealth and waste into wealth through innovation, entrepreneurship, science, technology, research skills and successful management.
He said that the idea has to be promoted that no material or person is waste. Addressing the scientists, the Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways urged them to focus on proven technologies, economic viability, availability of raw materials and marketability of the finished products. He cited the example of the potential development of the Zuari River in Goa, where a large gallery is being constructed. It will boost tourism and generate revenue.
A Complex Problem
Mr Igor Papić, Minister of Science, Technology and Innovation of the Republic of Slovenia, advocated a holistic approach to technology development for societal interests. He advocated active participation of the whole society in technological development, highlighting the critical need to involve social sciences and humanities to address potential misuse cases. He characterized water management as a complex problem demanding new technological innovations, underlining the importance of water as a fundamental natural resource.
Commitment to Rejuvenation and Restoration
In her address, Ms. Mukherjee echoed the call for collective action against solid waste and sewage pollution in water bodies, urging public participation to safeguard rivers. She highlighted the essential role of water conservation in sustainable development, reinforcing the Hon’ble Prime Minister’s message that “Water is Everyone’s Business.” This sentiment was shared by Shri G. Asok Kumar, who praised the collective action across states and cities and outlined NMCG's achievements, including the global recognition of Namami Gange as one of the top 10 World Restoration Flagships by the United Nations. Shri Kumar spoke on the decentralization of Ganga-related activities, with District Ganga Committees holding regular meetings, fostering local community involvement and empowerment through initiatives like the Ganga Praharis, District Project Officers, and Ganga Doots.
Shri Kumar emphasized a paradigmatic shift from an engineering-centric approach to the "Arth Ganga" model, which fosters community involvement, educational outreach, and livelihood opportunities for those living along the Ganga. He highlighted the increased population of the Ganges River Dolphin as an encouraging sign of progress in Ganga rejuvenation efforts. Furthermore, NMCG's partnerships with international organizations have enhanced the reach and impact of conservation initiatives. Shri Kumar highlighted the role of dedicated women volunteers in spreading awareness and introduced the Dilli Haat-Jalaj project, which promotes sustainable products crafted by women from the Ganga Basin.
Cultural Performances and Activities
Ganga Utsav 2023 was a vibrant cultural fest blending tradition, knowledge, and artistic expression. Highlights included a mesmerizing flute recital by Pt. Ajay Prasanna, a soulful performance of the "Yamuna Song" by the Bhartandey Group, a traditional folk dance by the Raag Nritya Kala Manch, and a new rendition of the "Namami Gange" song by Jeet Paramanik. Pandit Siddharta Banerjee concluded the event with a captivating fusion music performance, infusing the celebration with energy and unity.
These performances, along with informative sessions, aimed to connect the audience deeply with Ganga’s journey and significance, reinforcing a collective resolve for river rejuvenation. Ganga Utsav 2023 highlighted how cultural and environmental conservation can coexist, nurturing a sense of responsibility and pride towards India’s rivers, particularly the Ganga. The event served as a meaningful reminder of the ongoing commitment required from every individual to restore and preserve the essence of India's National River.