Two-Day National Seminar on “Rivers of India: History, Culture, and Conservation Challenges & Solutions” Organized at Allahabad University
Environmentalist Dr. Anil Prakash Joshi Advocates Plastic-Free Living for a Sustainable Future
Prayagraj:
A two-day national seminar on the theme “Rivers of India: History, Culture, and Conservation Challenges & Solutions” commenced on Thursday at Prof. Ishwar Topa Auditorium, Senate Campus, Allahabad University. The seminar, organized by the Department of Ancient History, Culture, and Archaeology, brought together historians, environmentalists, litterateurs, and researchers from across the country.
The primary objective of the event was to explore the cultural, historical, spiritual, and environmental significance of Indian rivers while discussing effective measures for their conservation.
Inaugural Session: Call for River Conservation and Collective Responsibility
The inaugural session was chaired by Prof. Harsh Kumar, Head of the Department of Ancient History, Culture, and Archaeology. The event was graced by Dr. Balamukund Pandey, National Organizational Secretary, Akhil Bharatiya Itihas Sankalan Yojana (ABISY), as the chief guest, while Sanjay Harsh Mishra, National Co-Organizing Secretary, was present as the distinguished guest.
Renowned environmentalist and Padma Shri and Padma Bhushan awardee, Dr. Anil Prakash Joshi, expressed grave concerns over plastic pollution and its hazardous effects on the environment. He emphasized that:
“By giving up plastic bottles in our lifetime, one can attain paradise even in this life.”
Dr. Joshi highlighted that plastic not only pollutes rivers and water bodies but also has a detrimental impact on soil, the atmosphere, and the entire ecosystem. He stressed that excessive use of plastic is making our water sources toxic, posing severe threats to human health.
He advocated for a plastic-free lifestyle, stating that shifting towards sustainable alternatives would not only protect the environment but also pave the way for mental and spiritual well-being.
The inaugural session was moderated by Dr. Sarvesh Singh, Assistant Professor, Allahabad University.
Technical Sessions: Scholarly Discussions on River Significance and Preservation
First Session: “Role of Rivers in the Development of Indian Civilization and Culture”
The first session, chaired by Prof. Anamika Roy, explored the central role of rivers in shaping Indian civilization. Dr. Shailesh Kumar Yadav conducted the session.
- Prof. H.N. Dubey emphasized the role of rivers in the rise and development of Indian civilization.
- Dr. Amit Singh elaborated on archaeological sites along river valleys and their cultural significance.
- Dr. Ramashankar Singh discussed the historical cities established along rivers and their commercial importance.
Second Session: “Cultural and Spiritual Representation of Rivers in Literature”
The second session, chaired by Prof. Prabhat Kumar Singh (IIT-BHU) and conducted by Dr. Arvind Yadav, focused on literary interpretations of rivers.
- Ram Babu Tiwari analyzed the spiritual portrayal of rivers in Indian literature.
- Sanjay Harsh Mishra provided insights into folk songs and narratives associated with rivers.
- Alok Kumar Pandey (IAS, Relief Commissioner & Secretary, Revenue Department, Gujarat Government) elaborated on government policies and public participation in river conservation.
Consensus on River Conservation as a Collective Responsibility
Scholars, researchers, and environmentalists at the seminar unanimously agreed that river conservation should not be limited to governmental efforts alone but must involve active public participation.
Speakers emphasized the need for a comprehensive policy to prevent river pollution, maintain natural flow, and restore ecological balance. The seminar concluded that river conservation is a shared responsibility and can only be effectively addressed through:
- Government initiatives
- Public awareness campaigns
- Behavioral changes at the individual and community levels
The seminar concluded with a vote of thanks by Prof. Anamika Roy, Dean, Faculty of Arts, Allahabad University. She assured that the key takeaways from the seminar would be forwarded to relevant institutions and policymakers to strengthen river conservation efforts.
She also reaffirmed that Allahabad University would continue to encourage research and discussions on environmental conservation.
The seminar witnessed the participation of scholars, researchers, and students from various universities, contributing to a meaningful and relevant discourse.
Dr. Anil Prakash Joshi’s Message: Boycott Single-Use Plastic
Dr. Anil Prakash Joshi placed special emphasis on the growing threat of plastic pollution, stating that it is not only contaminating water sources but also contributing to climate change and ecological imbalance.
He urged people to:
- Completely eliminate plastic from their daily lives
- Actively participate in cleaning riverbanks
- Raise awareness among local communities
- Promote research and innovation to develop practical alternatives to plastic
Seminar Organized with the Support of Key Organizations
The seminar was jointly organized with support from:
- State Mission for Clean Ganga-Uttar Pradesh (SMCG-UP)
- Sankh.org, an organization actively working for water conservation and river rejuvenation.
The event successfully fostered intellectual exchange and actionable discussions on safeguarding India’s rivers while promoting a sustainable and pollution-free future.
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