IIM Sambalpur hosts World Water Day 2026 celebrations
Sambalpur, March 23, 2026 – The Indian Institute of Management (IIM) Sambalpur proudly hosted the World Water Day 2026 celebrations. Organized by Youth4Water-India, this year’s theme was “Our Water Bodies, Our Pride.” The event aimed to raise awareness about the critical importance of water conservation and the need for climate action through initiatives led by youth and active community participation.
Event Highlights
The celebration was graced by several distinguished guests, including:
- Prof. Mahadeo Jaiswal, Director of IIM Sambalpur, who served as the chief guest.
- Ranjan Panda, founder-mentor of Youth4Water.
- Deboo Patanaik, entrepreneur and author.
- Rajashree Purohit, agronomist with the UN World Food Programme.
- Manoranjan Behera, Managing Director of AJSA India.
Recognizing Contributions to Water Management
The event also marked the 7th anniversary of Youth4Water-India. During the celebration, outstanding contributions in water management by various NGOs and individuals were recognized. Certificates were awarded to those who have made significant strides in promoting water conservation and sustainable practices.
Keynote Address by Prof. Mahadeo Jaiswal
In his keynote address, Prof. Mahadeo Jaiswal emphasized the importance of sustainability in education and community engagement. He stated, “At IIM Sambalpur, we go beyond classrooms—promoting inclusive, innovation-led learning while staying rooted in sustainability and grassroots impact. As humans and machines evolve together, our true progress lies in how responsibly we protect what sustains us. Saving water today is securing life tomorrow.”
Encouraging Sustainable Practices
Ranjan Panda, in his address, urged students and attendees to adopt sustainable practices and actively participate in water conservation efforts. He highlighted the role of youth in driving change and the importance of community involvement in addressing water-related challenges.
Empowering Women in Water Management
Rajashree Purohit brought attention to the gender disparities in access to safe drinking water. She emphasized that women are often the most affected by the lack of clean water and urged for their empowerment through leadership roles in responsible water management. Her call to action resonated with many attendees, highlighting the need for inclusive approaches to water governance.
Community Participation and Youth Engagement
The event featured various activities aimed at engaging the youth and local community in discussions about water conservation. Workshops, seminars, and interactive sessions were organized to foster dialogue and share best practices in water management. The participation of local schools and colleges was encouraged, making the event a platform for learning and collaboration.
Conclusion
The World Water Day 2026 celebrations at IIM Sambalpur served as a reminder of the vital role water plays in our lives and the urgent need for collective action to protect this precious resource. By raising awareness and fostering community involvement, the event aimed to inspire individuals to take responsibility for water conservation and advocate for sustainable practices.
Note: The celebration of World Water Day is an annual event observed on March 22, aimed at highlighting the importance of freshwater and advocating for the sustainable management of freshwater resources. This year’s theme, “Our Water Bodies, Our Pride,” underscores the significance of protecting and valuing our water bodies as essential components of our environment and culture.
