In a significant step towards bolstering water security and climate resilience in rural India, Secretary of Rural Development for the Union Territory of Ladakh, Amit Sharma, led a pivotal meeting with representatives from German Development Cooperation at the Civil Secretariat, Leh on June 11.

The meeting, focused on the Indo-German Bilateral Water Security and Climate Adaptation Project, brought together key stakeholders including the Ministry of Rural Development, the Ministry of Jal Shakti, Government of India, and German Development Cooperation.

Technical Advisor of the German Development Cooperation delivered a comprehensive presentation outlining the project's objectives, strategies, and expected outcomes. Notably, discussions centered on addressing water scarcity and enhancing climate resilience, with particular emphasis on the challenges faced in the Ladakh region.

Secretary Amit Sharma expressed gratitude for the expertise and dedication of the German Development Cooperation, highlighting the importance of international partnerships in tackling pressing issues like water security and climate change. He emphasized the project's role in strengthening bilateral relations between India and Germany, underscoring their shared commitment to sustainable rural development.

Furthermore, Secretary Sharma urged Sajjad Qadri, Director of Rural Development for UT Ladakh and Nodal Officer of the Indo-German Bilateral Project, to expedite implementation, especially within the ongoing WDC-PMKSY scheme.

The meeting served as a platform for discussing innovative water management practices, capacity-building initiatives, and community-driven approaches to climate adaptation. Representatives from the German Development Cooperation reaffirmed their commitment, stressing the importance of a coordinated approach for successful project implementation and desired outcomes.

In attendance were the Under Secretary of Rural Development, Chief Accounts Officer of Rural Development, representatives from German Development Cooperation, and concerned officers. The Director of the Rural Development Department and Panchayati Raj Institutions, Ladakh, participated virtually from Kargil headquarters.