JAMMU: Jal Shakti Minister, Javed Ahmed Rana, today virtually attended the World Water Day celebration organised by the Institution of Engineers, where extensive deliberations were held on this year’s global theme, “Water and Gender: Where water flows, equality grows.”
The event highlighted the critical intersection of water access and gender equality, drawing attention to the disproportionate burden that water scarcity places on women and girls, particularly in rural and underserved regions.
The speakers emphasised that ensuring women’s participation and leadership in water governance is not only a matter of equity but also a prerequisite for sustainable development and climate resilience, in line with the goals of United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 6 (SDG 6), which focuses on clean water and sanitation for all.
Addressing the gathering, the Minister underscored the importance of inclusive and participatory water management systems. He reiterated the government’s commitment to ensuring equitable access to safe and sustainable water resources across the Union Territory. He stressed that empowering women in water-related decision-making processes can significantly strengthen community resilience, improve resource efficiency, and promote long-term environmental sustainability.