Page 12 - Mann Ki Baat April 2022

It has been clearly stated in our
scriptures –
े
पानियम् परमम् लोक,
जीवािाम् जीविम् समृतम्।।
Meaning, water is the basis of life
of every living being in the world,
and water is also the biggest
resource, that is why our ancestors
placed great emphasis on
water conservation. From Vedas
to Puranas, conserving water,
constructing ponds, reservoir, etc.,
has been described as the social
and spiritual duty of a person.
Valmiki Ramayana lays special
emphasis on connecting water Engineering marvel (of Dholavira) for water
sources and water conservation. conservation during Harappan Civilisation
Likewise, history students must
be aware of well-developed Friends, every effort towards
hydraulic engineering in India water is an effort towards our
during the Indus-Saraswati
and Harappan civilizations. In
ancient times, many cities had
an interconnected system of
water sources and these were
the times when the population
was not much, natural resources
were not scarce, rather, there
was abundance, yet, there was
great awareness regarding water
conservation. But today, the
situation is reversed. I urge you
all to gather knowledge about
such old ponds, wells and lakes
in your area. Along with water
conservation, your area will also
develop a distinct identity due
to the Amrit Sarovar Abhiyan.
This will also help develop local
tourist places in cities, localities,
and people will also get a place
to walk around.

9