A thought-provoking discussion on bridging ancient wisdom with contemporary environmental challenges unfolded at a seminar here on Tuesday, with renowned water conservationist Dr Rajendra Singh emphasising the relevance of India’s traditional development philosophy.
The Ramon Magsaysay awardee, widely revered as the Waterman of India, was addressing a gathering at the seminar on “Environmental Challenges with Development: Sustainable Development through Collective Efforts” organised jointly by the Uttar Pradesh Pollution Control Board and Mahayogi Gorakhnath University, Gorakhpur.
Dr Singh elaborated, “Sanatan carries a meaning far beyond common perception. It is not merely a term but a complete philosophical framework for understanding life and existence. It signifies something that remains eternal while constantly renewing itself. This very principle formed the bedrock of how ancient India approached development, he explained. The Vedas and Upanishads had clearly articulated humanity’s duties towards nature thousands of years before modern environmental discourse took shape. The concept of Panchabhoot or five elements had already embedded respect for nature deep within Indian cultural consciousness. This sophisticated understanding of harmonious coexistence between humans and their environment is precisely why the world once regarded India as Vishwa Guru. To regain that respect, India must return to these timeless teachings.”
Addressing the pressing challenge of water scarcity affecting large parts of the country, Dr Singh offered perspectives shaped by decades of fieldwork rather than textbook learning. He firmly advocated for solutions tailored to local conditions instead of waiting for global prescriptions that rarely materialise. Creating awareness among common people about water and its characteristics can drive meaningful change, he said. The most crucial requirement is maintaining equilibrium between water extraction and groundwater recharge, he added.
Drawing upon half a century of grassroots engagement, Dr Singh shared what hands-on experience has taught him about effecting lasting transformation. Significant outcomes emerge from modest steps taken patiently over extended periods. He cited his own work where sustained small efforts spanning fifty years succeeded in resurrecting 23 rivers that had dried up. Rivers must continue flowing for civilisations to remain vibrant and endure, he observed with conviction.
Former chief secretary Manoj Kumar Singh, present at the seminar, offered thoughtful observations about environmental stewardship. This responsibility cannot be delegated solely to governments and institutions, he asserted. Every citizen must acknowledge their share of the obligation. He highlighted an interesting pattern that the most developed countries also boast the cleanest environments. This demonstrates conclusively that rapid progress and ecological preservation can go hand in hand.
Dr Surender Singh, Vice-Chancellor of MGUG, emphasised the importance of maintaining equilibrium between developmental imperatives and environmental considerations while working towards Viksit Bharat 2047 objectives. He reaffirmed the university’s unwavering commitment to contributing towards environmental conservation through research initiatives and awareness campaigns.
Dr Ravindra Pratap Singh, Chairman of UPPCB, described the seminar as a natural reflection of Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath’s progressive vision for the state. Development loses its meaning when air becomes too polluted to breathe, water too contaminated to consume and earth too degraded to sustain life. Collective action emerging from individual efforts ultimately serves larger conservation purposes, he remarked while delivering a vote of thanks.
The seminar witnessed participation from Commissioner Anil Dhingra, District Magistrate Deepak Meena, Municipal Commissioner Gaurav Singh Sogarwal, AIIMS Executive Director Major General Dr Vibha Datta, alongside numerous officials, university faculty members and a large contingent of students.