The Mahatma Gandhi International Sanitation Convention (MGISC) is a world-renowned event that predominantly brings together Sanitation Ministers and relevant sector specialists from across the globe. This 4-day distinguished event was first organized by the Ministry of Drinking Water and Sanitation, Government of India in 2018. The participants involved delegates from as many as 68 countries.
Objective of MGISC
The primary aim of the MGISC is to share experiences and learnings related to sanitation success from the participating countries. Furthermore, the convention marks the commencement of the 150th birth anniversary celebrations of none other than Mahatma Gandhi. This coincides with the fourth anniversary of the launch of Swachh Bharat Mission, which has significantly contributed to making India cleaner and more sanitary.
Surinsar-Mansar Lakes: Wetlands of International Importance
Counted among the 26 Ramsar Sites designated as Wetlands of International importance, the Surinsar-Mansar Lakes are located in Jammu & Kashmir. These twin lakes are surrounded by the charming Surinsar Mansar Wildlife Sanctuary. From a social and cultural perspective, this site holds immense importance due to its many ancient temples and mythical origin dating back to the Mahabharata period. Unfortunately, these lakes are now grappling with existential threats due to human intervention and climate change.
Mughal-era Bridge Oont Kadal Restoration Project
Oont Kadal, an iconic 17th-century hump-backed bridge located in the Dal Lake, is being restored by the Indian National Trust for Art and Cultural Heritage (INTACH). For this project, INTACH is being supported by Germany. Oont Kadal is a significant part of the local landscape, which also features the Zabarwan Mountain range and the potential World Heritage Site of Nishat Bagh. Through the restoration of Oont Kadal, INTACH aims to bring global attention back to the cultural and natural heritage of the Dal Lake.
About INTACH: Preserving Heritage
Indian National Trust For Art And Cultural Heritage (INTACH) is a non-profit charitable organization founded in New Delhi in 1984. It is registered under the Societies’ Registration Act, 1860. The organization’s vision is to drive heritage awareness and conservation in India. Over the years, INTACH has played a pioneering role in conserving and preserving not just natural and built heritage, but also intangible heritage.