The Ministry of Jal Shakti has recently announced the launch of the inaugural edition of the India Young Water Professional Programme. This initiative represents a significant advancement in the Australia-India Water relationship, as it aims to prepare future leaders in water management.
Program Overview
Implemented under the National Hydrology Project, the India Young Water Professional Programme will be supervised by the Australia India Water Centre, a consortium comprising both Australian and Indian universities. The program follows an Engaged Training and Learning Model to meet its goals.
A unique component to this initiative is its application of the 70-20-10 framework. The idea behind this educational model suggests that learning is divided into three distinct types of experiences: 70% comes from on-the-job learning and development, 20% arises from learning through others, and the remaining 10% stems from traditional, formal training avenues.
An additional emphasis of the program is its commitment to gender equality and diversity. The belief here is that sustainable water management will only truly succeed with the contributions, skills, and insights of every segment of society.
Expected Outcomes
The India Young Water Professional Programme is results-oriented, equipping participants with various tools and techniques by the time they complete the course. Given its success, a second phase of the program is anticipated to roll out later in 2022.
Program Objectives
The principal aim of this program is to establish a robust platform for capacity-building, offering strategic and long-term investment support to promote water management reforms in India.
Furthermore, it seeks to expand the capability of water professionals, providing them with the necessary skills, knowledge, and networks to contribute effectively towards the development and management of India’s water resources.
Significance of the Programme
This initiative intends to close the gap between surface water and groundwater management approaches. It encourages participants to adopt a holistic view of water resources management.
Other Related Initiatives
This programme is aligned with several other initiatives, among which are the Jal Kranti Abhiyan, National Water Mission, National Rural Drinking Water Programme, NITI Aayog’s Composite Water Management Index, Jal Jeevan Mission, Jal Shakti Abhiyan, and Atal Bhujal Yojana.
About National Hydrology Project
Launched in 2016 as a Central Sector Scheme by the Ministry of Jal Shakti and backed by the World Bank, the National Hydrology Project aims to enhance the accessibility, reliability, and scope of water resources information.
The project also seeks to strengthen the competency of Indian water resource management institutions and facilitate the acquisition of dependable information efficiently, thereby furthering effective development and management of water resources.
Project Beneficiaries
Primary beneficiaries of this project include central and state-run agencies tasked with groundwater and surface water planning and management, along with river basin organizations. The Water Resources Information System (WRIS), which is also supported by this project, will benefit users across various sectors worldwide.
The WRIS is dedicated to boosting public awareness about the current status of water resources and the necessity for effective management. It aims to engage stakeholder interest, promoting collective action towards achieving water security.