New Delhi, March 24, 2025: Dhanuka Agritech Ltd, in collaboration with the PHD Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PHDCCI), successfully hosted a landmark event to commemorate World Water Day 2025 at PHD House, New Delhi. With this year’s UN theme focusing on Glacier Preservation, the event convened leading experts, policymakers, and stakeholders to discuss urgent water conservation measures and sustainable management practices critical for India’s future.
The event commenced with a welcome address by Dr. R. G. Agarwal, Chairman, Agri-Business Committee, PHDCCI & Chairman Emeritus, Dhanuka Agritech Ltd. This was followed by insightful sessions on water productivity challenges, smart irrigation systems, and traditional water conservation methods, featuring esteemed speakers from across industries.
A key highlight of the event was the Farmers’ Felicitation Ceremony, organized by Dhanuka Agritech Ltd, to honor exceptional contributions to sustainable water conservation in agriculture. The event was attended by Dr. Umashankar Pandey, Padma Shri Awardee, Shri Kanwal Singh Chauhan, Padma Shri Awardee Farmer, Member FSSAI, Govt of India, and GB Member ICAR, along with several other distinguished experts and policymakers.
Speaking on the occasion, Dr. R. G. Agarwal emphasized, “Water is not just a resource; it is the unseen farmer nurturing every harvest. As climate change intensifies the water crisis, we must act with urgency. At Dhanuka Agritech, we are committed to driving sustainable solutions that empower farmers, conserve water, and secure our agricultural future by supporting the farming community with innovative strategies to combat water scarcity.”
Dhanuka Group has championed water conservation for over a decade. The Group spearheaded the signature campaign, “Khet ka pani khet mein aur gaon ka pani gaon mein,” with legendary actor Amitabh Bachchan as its brand ambassador, aiming to educate communities on responsible water use in agriculture and daily life. Additionally, Dhanuka Group has funded the construction of 8 successful check dams in Rajasthan, capturing rainwater for use by villages in Jugalpura, Devipura (Sikar district), Mainpuraki Dhani, and Sankotra (Jaipur district)—a testament to its commitment to sustainable water solutions.
Padma Shri Dr. Umashankar Pandey urged industry leaders, stating, “Since we do not have any dedicated educational university on water in India, I appeal to corporate and industry leaders to establish a Water Museum and Water Library to foster better awareness and understanding of water conservation.”
Delivering the keynote address, Dr. Alok K Sikka, Country Representative – India & Bangladesh, CGIAR-IWMI, highlighted, “Water supply versus demand must be carefully managed, and incentivization is necessary to ensure the sustainable use of natural resources.”
Mr. Kaushal Jaiswal, President, Irrigation Association of India & Managing Director, Rivulis Irrigation India Pvt. Ltd., stressed the need for more practical solutions, stating that while water is available, conservation efforts remain inconsistent. He highlighted that drip irrigation must be promoted for efficient water use in agriculture.
Dr. T.B.S. Rajput, Adjunct Professor (Ag. Engineering), IARI, New Delhi, added, “Water availability is the biggest challenge in agriculture. Reducing agricultural water consumption to 60% through smart irrigation techniques is critical for long-term sustainability.”
With India facing significant water challenges, this event underscored the urgent need for collaborative efforts between industry leaders, policymakers, and the farming community to implement sustainable water management practices. Dhanuka Agritech Ltd and PHDCCI continue to lead this vital conversation, demonstrating that Jal Shakti (Water Power) can unite us all in securing a sustainable future.
