Watershed management essential for future water security

Speakers at a national symposium in Hyderabad emphasized the importance of watersheds for future water security. The two-day event took place in honor of World Water Day. It was jointly organized by Prof. Jayashankar Telangana Agricultural University and Dr. M. Channa Reddy Memorial Trust. M. Shashidhar Reddy, former vice-chairman of the National Disaster Management Authority, presented the "four-waters" concept. This idea, developed by water conservation expert T. Hanumantha Rao, is especially suitable for semi-arid regions like Telangana. Reddy mentioned that Hanumantha Rao’s approach, implemented in 2001, required only ₹5,000 per acre and successfully supported three crops per year. M. Balaram, Director of Research at JNTU, pointed out the need to address challenges in implementing watershed projects. He stressed the importance of involving farmers in the management process to ensure success. K.V. Ramana Rao, Dean of Agricultural Engineering at PJTAU, noted that watersheds play a critical role in managing water resources effectively. The symposium featured contributions from various experts, including environmentalists and local village representatives. They discussed how protecting natural resources is essential for effective watershed management.