The Water Resources Department, Meghalaya, under the
National Hydrology Project, along with Central Water Commission (CWC), North eastern
Space Application Centre (NeSAC), Central Ground Water Board (CGWB), Survey of India
(SoI) and National Institute of Hydrology- North eastern Regional Centre(NIH-NERC) as coorganisers, hosted the National Space Day Workshop on the 13th of August, 2024, at the
Shillong State Convention Centre, focusing on the theme, “Space Technology for Sustainable
Water Resources Management.” The event brought together experts from various fields to
discuss innovative solutions for managing water resources using space technology.
The workshop began with a formal inauguration and a warm welcome by Shri. S. C. Sadhu,
IAS, Secretary of the Water Resources Department. In his opening speech, he emphasized the
crucial role of space technology in addressing water management challenges in Meghalaya
and beyond. Dr. K. K. Sharma, Group Head of Remote Sensing & GIS at NeSAC, delivered
the keynote address, highlighting India’s remarkable space journey starting from the 1960s
and encouraged everyone to take advantage of the evolving space policy that offers exciting
opportunities for new generations and startups to contribute to India’s growing space
economy. The Chief Guest, Shri. C. Ymbon, Hon’ble Minister in charge of the Water
Resources Department, underscored the Government’s commitment to leveraging
technological innovations for effective water management. “By harnessing the power of
space technology, we can ensure equitable access to clean water, promote environmental
sustainability, and build resilient communities for generations to come.” Shri. Ymbon
remarked.
Throughout the day, experts presented various topics, including the application of satellite
data in water resources management and innovations in surveying techniques. Notably, Dr.
Swapnali Barman, a Scientist from NIH-NERC, and Shri. Ranjit Das, a Scientist from
NeSAC discussed the potential and practical applications of space technology in the water
resources sector while Shri. Rajiv Kumar Shrivastava, Director of the Survey of India,
highlighted the transition of survey methods from traditional to modern methods with the use
of Space technology. The event concluded with a vote of thanks by Shri. N. Jiten Singh,
Deputy Commissioner of the National Hydrology Project.
The National Space Day Workshop successfully highlighted the vital role of space
technology in water management and fostered discussions on practical applications for
sustainable development. As participants dispersed, the consensus was clear: continued
collaboration and innovation are essential for safeguarding our water resources.