#### Not Just Discussion, Act on Water Conservation

Udaipur, Girwa Block. At the Girwa Block-level Principals’ Forum in Udaipur, senior physician and Water Hero–Jal Mitra, Dr. P.C. Jain, emphasized that while numerous NGOs frequently organize water rallies, street plays, posters, and slogan campaigns, actual rainwater harvesting at households through rooftop systems remains minimal. He noted that most of the precious rainwater is still being wasted in drains.

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Program Commencement with Water Kalash Poojan

The program began with the traditional Jal Kalash Poojan, followed by a song, “Jal hi jeevan hai, aaj nahi to kal jayega, jal bin jeevan jal jayega” sung by retired commissioner M. Mohan Rao, inspiring everyone to reflect on the importance of water conservation. Dr. Jain explained why water saving, both in daily life and during the monsoon season, is essential. “We have blocked every path for water to seep into the ground, inside and outside our houses. How, then, will groundwater levels ever rise?” he questioned.

Practical Demonstrations and Scientific Insights

Teachers were guided to test the TDS levels of drinking water and advised on safe limits for consumption. Using models from his hospital, Dr. Jain demonstrated rooftop rainwater harvesting—described as the simplest and most economical method. He also shared successful case studies of rainwater harvesting and urged schools not to waste rainwater falling on their rooftops but instead recharge groundwater through hand pumps and tube wells, which would benefit students in the future.

In his PPT presentation, he also explained the concept of virtual water—the hidden water consumed in producing clothes, food grains, and smartphones—and called unnecessary purchases a form of water misuse.

Cultural Segment and Commitment for Action

The session also included a Jal Geet (water song) accompanied by a dance performance in which Manisha Joshi, Tarun Prabha Sharma, Asha Soni, Lalita Meena, and Manju Shrimali participated. The audience was then asked to take a pledge to implement rooftop rainwater harvesting at their own homes, setting an example for society and students alike.

Displaying a map of India, Dr. Jain highlighted that Rajasthan has the highest over-extraction of groundwater in the country at 148%, making conservation efforts more urgent than ever.