PM at Mann Ki Baat: Centre to launch campaign for water conservation, Modi lauds Assam residents for nature, forest conservation

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday stated the Centre’s Jal Shakti Ministry is planning for the launch of a 100 day campaign termed as ‘Catch the Rain’ for promoting water conservation in country.

While addressing the nation during ‘Mann Ki Baat’, the Prime Minister said, “This is the best time to think about water conservation in the summer months ahead… Yesterday was the festival of Magha Purnima. The month of Magh is associated with rivers, lakes, and water bodies… Water is more important than ‘Paras’ in a way. It is said that by the touch of ‘Paras’ in a way. It is said that by the touch of ‘Paras’, iron can be converted into gold. In the same way, the touch of the water is necessary for life.”

During his address to the nation in the monthly radio programme, PM Modi broached the topic of forest conservation, water conservation, and protection of nature particularly appreciating the efforts taken by the residents of Assam. He said an overall 112 species of birds were sighted in Kaziranga National Park, Assam.

Modi said, “The Kaziranga National Park and Tiger Reserve Authority has been carrying out its Annual Waterfowl Census for some time. This Census reveals the population of water birds and also about their favourite habitat. Just to-three weeks ago, the survey was conducted again. You will also be delighted to know that this time the number of water birds has increased by about one hundred seventy-five (175 per cent) compared to year. A total of 112 species of birds have been sighted in Kaziranga National Park during this census.”

He cited the example of Jadav Payeng of Assam, who has been awarded with Padma award for his work. He said, “Jadav Payeng is the first person who actively contributed in raising about 300 hectares of plantations in the Majuli Island in Assam. He has been constantly working for forest conservation and is also involved in motivating people for plantation and conservation of biodiversity.”

PM Modi further emphasized on how temples in Assam are playing a unique role for protection and conservation of nature.