Jal Shakti secy reviews river research at IIT-BHU
On April 26, 2026, the Secretary of the Jal Shakti Ministry, V.L. Kantha Rao, visited the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) in Banaras Hindu University (BHU) to assess ongoing initiatives focused on river rejuvenation and water management. This visit underscores the government’s commitment to addressing water-related challenges through scientific research and technological advancements.
Inspection of the Smart Laboratory on Clean Rivers
During his visit, Secretary Rao inspected the Smart Laboratory on Clean Rivers, a facility dedicated to advanced research and technological interventions aimed at improving river water quality and monitoring systems. This laboratory serves as a crucial center for innovation and applied research in sustainable river management.
Research and Contributions
A team of esteemed experts from IIT-BHU briefed Secretary Rao on their ongoing research projects and field applications. The team included:
- Prof. S.B. Dwivedi
- Prof. Anurag Ohri
- Prof. Shishir Gaur
- Prof. Harsimran Kaur
- Prof. Medha Jha
- Dr. Pramod Soni
- Dr. Anshuman Satpathy
- Rahul Singh
- Prof. Shreyans Kumar Jain
The interaction highlighted the significant role that academic institutions play in supporting flagship river conservation programs, such as the Namami Gange Programme, through scientific and technological inputs.
Evidence-Based Policy and Sustainable Solutions
Secretary Rao expressed appreciation for the efforts made by IIT-BHU in promoting evidence-based policy and sustainable solutions for river management. He emphasized the importance of translating laboratory innovations into real-world applications, particularly at the ground level. This approach is essential for ensuring that the benefits of research reach communities and ecosystems that rely on healthy river systems.
Adopting International Practices
In his address, Rao underlined the necessity of adopting advanced international practices to enhance the efficiency and scalability of river management initiatives. He specifically mentioned the potential for incorporating technologies and methodologies from Denmark, which is known for its progressive water management strategies.
Future Directions
The discussions during the visit also pointed towards the need for collaborative efforts between government bodies, academic institutions, and local communities. This collaboration is vital for developing comprehensive strategies that address the multifaceted challenges of river pollution, water scarcity, and ecosystem degradation.
Conclusion
The visit by Secretary V.L. Kantha Rao to IIT-BHU marks a significant step towards enhancing river management practices in India. By leveraging academic research and fostering partnerships, the government aims to implement sustainable solutions that can effectively rejuvenate rivers and improve water quality across the nation.
Note: The information presented in this article is based on the latest updates and initiatives concerning river research and management at IIT-BHU as of April 2026.
