ARINDAM GANGULY, OP
New Delhi/Bhubaneswar: Odisha is showcasing its integrated water resources management model at the 9th India International Water Week (IIWW)-2026, being held at Bharat Mandapam in New Delhi from September 22 to 26.
Themed ‘Climate Resilient Water Management,’ the international event brings together policymakers, experts, institutions and stakeholders to deliberate on sustainable and climate-resilient approaches to water management.
The Odisha Pavilion was inaugurated by Union Minister of Jal Shakti C R Patil.
As part of the deliberations at IIWW-2026, Department of Water Resources Principal Secretary Shubha Sarma co-chaired a special session on ‘Joint Indo-Danish Solutions for Sustainable Water Management’ along with Denmark Ambassador to India Rasmus Abildgaard Kristensen.
During the session, Sarma highlighted opportunities for collaboration between Odisha and Denmark, particularly in addressing coastal erosion, strengthening coastal resil ience and exploring Danish expertise and technologies for sustainable water management.
At the Odisha Pavilion, the state is showcasing its irrigation infrastructure, efficient water-use practices and a range of initiatives aimed at strengthening water security and climate resilience.
These include soil-moisture sensors, integrated rice-fish farming, automatic wetting and drying systems, and climate-resilient pulse and rice seed varieties designed to support sustainable agriculture.
A key attraction is the Odisha Integrated Irrigation Project for Climate Resilient Agriculture (OIIPCRA), which is being presented through a dedicated project model.
The project covers 538 minor irrigation tanks across 15 districts and integrates water-body restoration, improved irrigation, climate-resilient and scientific agriculture, fisheries development and livelihood support.
The Kanupur Irrigation Project model is another major feature of the Odisha showcase.
It demonstrates water storage, intra-sub-basin water transfer and modern water-conveyance systems, while highlighting the state’s approach to efficient utilisation of available water resources and strengthening long-term water security.
A dedicated Digital Success Stories platform at the pavilion showcases achievements from different parts of the state, highlighting the socio-economic progress of farmers, community members and other beneficiaries of water and irrigation interventions.
The Odisha Pavilion also features a Community Engagement Corner, an interactive space designed to promote public participation through quizzes, awareness activities and a Water Conservation Pledge Wall.
Visitors are encouraged to take part in these activities and reaffirm their commitment to conserving water and protecting water resources for future generations.