Leh, June 11: Secretary of Rural Development for the Union Territory of Ladakh, Amit Sharma, chaired a crucial meeting with representatives from the German Development Co-operation at the Civil Secretariat, Leh. This significant step aims to bolster water security and climate adaptation in rural India through the Indo-German Bilateral Water Security and Climate Adaptation Project.
The collaborative initiative involves the Ministry of Rural Development and the Ministry of Jal Shakti, Government of India. The meeting commenced with a detailed presentation by the Technical Advisor of the German Development Co-operation, outlining the project’s objectives, strategies, and anticipated outcomes. The presentation emphasized addressing water scarcity and enhancing climate resilience in rural communities, with a special focus on the unique challenges faced by Ladakh.
Secretary Amit Sharma expressed gratitude for the German Development Co-operation’s expertise and commitment to sustainable development. He underscored the importance of international collaborations in addressing critical issues related to water security and climate change. “This project is a testament to the strong bilateral ties between India and Germany and reflects our shared commitment to fostering sustainable development in rural areas,” Sharma stated.
Sharma also directed Sajjad Qadri, Director of Rural Development for UT Ladakh and the Nodal Officer of the Indo-German Bilateral Project, to expedite the project’s implementation and ensure swift execution, particularly under the ongoing WDC-PMKSY scheme. The Nodal Officer is responsible for overseeing various stages of the project, coordinating with relevant stakeholders, and addressing any challenges during the implementation phase.
The meeting also served as a platform to discuss the integration of innovative water management practices, capacity-building initiatives, and community-driven approaches to climate adaptation. Participants explored various avenues to leverage technological advancements and traditional knowledge systems to enhance the resilience of rural communities against climate change impacts.
Representatives from the German Development Co-operation reaffirmed their commitment and active participation in the project. They emphasized the need for a coordinated approach to ensure the successful implementation of activities and the achievement of desired outcomes.
The meeting was attended by the Under Secretary of Rural Development, the Chief Accounts Officer of Rural Development, representatives from the German Development Co-operation, and concerned officers. The Director of the Rural Development Department and Panchayati Raj Institutions, Ladakh, joined the meeting virtually from Kargil headquarters.
