Prague: Chandigarh Chief Secretary H. Rajesh Prasad, a 1995-batch IAS officer of the AGMUT cadre, is leading an Indian delegation on a five-day mission to the Czech Republic aimed at exploring cooperation in water management, waste management and circular economy solutions.
The delegation’s visit from September 21 to 25 brings together representatives from public administration, policymaking, academia, research institutions and industry. The programme covers Prague, Zlín and Ostrava, where the participants are scheduled to engage with Czech government agencies, universities, research institutions and companies.
Focus on Water Conservation and Reuse
Addressing the opening session, Prasad stressed the need to develop a stronger water economy in India, describing water as a strategic resource.
Read Also: Punjab Govt Transfers 3 IAS Officers, Changes PAU Registrar and Director Sports
He highlighted conservation, efficient utilisation, wastewater treatment, reuse and recycling as key areas requiring greater attention. He also emphasised coordination between government policy, technology, academic research and industry to develop solutions suited to India’s urban, industrial and agricultural requirements.
From Waste Disposal to Resource Recovery
Czech Deputy Environment Minister Ivo Marcin highlighted the importance of international cooperation in addressing environmental challenges. He called for a shift from conventional waste disposal towards reuse, recycling, resource recovery and efficient use of resources.
The Indian delegation includes faculty and representatives from IIT Ropar and Chitkara University, adding an academic and research component to the discussions.
Key areas under discussion include:
- Technology collaboration in water and waste management
- Joint research and pilot projects
- Institutional partnerships between Indian and Czech organisations
- Investment opportunities and business-to-business engagement
- Recycling, wastewater treatment and resource efficiency
The mission has been organised by Major Guneet Chaudhary (retd), Honorary Consul of the Czech Republic, with support from the Czech Embassy in India and the Czech Ministry of Environment. The Czech Embassy identifies Chaudhary as the honorary consul in Chandigarh and notes his role in promoting India-Czech cooperation.
The visit is intended to facilitate practical partnerships between Indian and Czech stakeholders in sustainable water management, waste management and circular economy initiatives.
