The program was launched in the presence of Manpreet Vohra, the Indian High Commissioner to Australia; Barry O’ Farrell, the Australian High Commissioner to India; and Debashree Mukherjee, the Additional Secretary of the Ministry of Jal Shakti. At this event, more than 100 people showed up to support the cause. The National Hydrology Project was responsible for implementing the program. The National Hydrology Project is a Central Scheme of the Department of Water Resources and the Department of Agriculture and Food. The Australian Water Partnership is assisting with the project. The India Young Water Professional Program is distinct from other capacity-building and training programs in that it focuses on young professionals.
A particular emphasis is placed on the Engaged Training and Learning Model. The majority of this program is devoted to project-based learning, which is accomplished through the utilization of Situation Understanding and Improvement Projects (SUIP). This document also emphasizes the importance of gender equality and diversity, because sustainable water management can only be achieved by utilizing the abilities and perspectives of all parts of society. For the first edition of the program, about 20 participants have been selected from central and state implementing agencies of the National Hydrology Project, with 10 men and 10 women representing each of the agencies.
Water is a high-priority sector in the bilateral relationship between Australia and India. Both countries are putting out significant effort on this front. Both countries consider the Young Water Professional Program to be a watershed moment in their engagement with one another. It will contribute to the strengthening of institutions and the development of capacity. This program will also aid in the dismantling of the silos that separate surface water from groundwater. Participants will gain an understanding of how to take a holistic approach to water resources management.
