World Water Day
Water water everywhere, not a drop to drink, was the
starting line of the chapter "Water" in the science book, during my
schooling. Our life has changed a lot, and we find technological advancements
in every sphere of life. We have electronic gadgets everywhere around, which
need electricity. When electricity is not available, they become useless but
still we are able to live without them. But no one can even think of living
without water for a day.
At present the biggest need for the survival of life on the
planet is to conserve water. Around the globe World Water Day is being observed
on 22nd March since 1993. This day is primarily devoted to implement United
Nations recommendations on clean drinking water, sustain safe drinking water
facilities, conservation of water, sustaining fresh water bodies and to promote
concrete activities within the countries regarding the world's fresh water
resources. International World Water Day tries to remind people about the
significance of fresh water and to promote sustainability for fresh water
resources. Organizations all around the world use World Water day to promote
awareness about clean water and sustainable aquatic habitats. Also as a day to
focus public attention on the critical water issues of the present era.
Moving towards Indian scenario, the country receives
abundant amount of rain, but factors like increase in population, is among the
main reasons of water scarcity to the country. Due to population increase,
natural resources are consumed more. A large number of water bodies local
ponds, lakes, rivers and reservoirs get polluted and depleted. At present a
considerable amount of water of the country's population lack access to safe
drinking water. Also, Indian agriculture is rain fed. The goals and success of
agriculture in India are based on availability of water, mostly rain water.
Good amount of rain means a good crop harvest. Preserving rain water is must
and ensuring that almost no toxic material present should get mixed with rain
water, which can eventually pollute it as well as the water body in which it
eventually flows.
In the light of the above, it is a general understanding
that, there is a need of water conservation in the country and the major issues
with regard to water usage in India can be summed up as under:-
1. To ensure safe drinking water to rural and urban house
holds
2. To sustain safe drinking water facilities.
3. The restoration/ clean water bodies both in villages and
cities.
4. Water conservation.
2016 Theme: Better Water,
Better Jobs
Every year, The World Water Day emphasizes on a different
aspect of freshwater. This year's World Water Day theme focuses on the central
role that water plays in creating and supporting good quality jobs.
Water means jobs
Water is the essential building block of life. But it is
more than just essential to quench thirst or protect health; water is vital for
creating jobs and supporting economic, social, and human development.
Today, half of the world's workers - 1.5 billion people -
work in water-related sectors. Moreover, nearly all jobs, regardless of the
sector, depend directly on water. Yet, despite the indelible link between jobs
and water, millions of people whose livelihoods depend on water are often not
recognized or protected by basic labour rights.
