Maharashtra’s Drought Crisis: Fadnavis Stresses Need for Water Conservation to Prevent Farmer Suicides
Reported by Tikam Shekhawat
Pune, 30th November 2024: Maharashtra is grappling with a severe 50 percent water shortage, and the solution to the crisis lies in effective water conservation, said former Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis on Saturday. Speaking at the national convention of the Bharatiya Jain Sanghatana, Fadnavis emphasized the urgency of solving the state’s water problems to prevent farmer suicides and ensure long-term sustainability.
“The water crisis is a critical issue in Maharashtra. Water conservation is the only viable solution to this problem, which is wreaking havoc on farmers and communities across the state,” Fadnavis said. His remarks were made in the presence of prominent figures including actor Aamir Khan, Paani Foundation trustee Satyajit Bhatkal, MLAs Chandrakant Patil and Madhuri Misal, and Bharatiya Jain Sanghatana founder Shantilal Mutha.
Fadnavis highlighted a 2020 water table report prepared by the central government, noting that while water levels had declined across most states, Maharashtra was the only one where the water table had increased. This achievement, he pointed out, was largely due to the efforts of organizations like the Paani Foundation and the Bharatiya Jain Sanghatana.
“Paani Foundation and the Bharatiya Jain Sanghatana have made significant contributions to water conservation, and I’m here as an activist to support these efforts,” said Fadnavis. He further acknowledged the work of the Jain community, praising them for their pioneering role in philanthropy. “The Jain community has long been a leader in selfless service. This work not only benefits society but also plays a critical role in strengthening India’s GDP. The path to making India an economic superpower goes through the Jain community,” he added.
Fadnavis also addressed the importance of using human intelligence in addressing the water crisis. “If we don’t use our intelligence to solve these problems, even artificial intelligence will not help,” he warned. He concluded by reiterating his support for the ongoing water conservation initiatives, expressing his belief that being part of such efforts is not just a duty, but a responsibility.
Actor Aamir Khan, who also serves as a trustee of the Paani Foundation, was present at the event. He continues to advocate for water conservation initiatives aimed at making Maharashtra drought-free.
This convention serves as a vital platform for promoting water conservation across the state, with both governmental and non-governmental organizations working together to combat Maharashtra’s water crisis.
