At the “WEFE Nexus” session, experts highlighted the critical need for integrated approaches to balance water, energy, food, and ecosystems, emphasizing sustainable strategies for addressing water security challenges in India and beyond.
A recent session titled “WEFE Nexus – Towards Common Grounds to Strengthen Water Security” convened experts to explore strategies for managing the intersection of water, energy, food, and ecosystems. The event underscored the critical need for collaborative, integrated approaches to address the escalating global challenges surrounding water security.
In her keynote address, Ms Archana Varma, Director of the National Water Mission under India’s Ministry of Jal Shakti, highlighted the country’s growing water scarcity. She stressed the importance of the Water-Energy-Food-Ecosystem (WEFE) nexus in addressing these concerns, particularly in agriculture. “The gap between demand and availability of water is increasing, and the interconnectedness of water, food, energy, and ecosystems is crucial for sustainable growth,” she said, while urging for community participation and crop diversification.
Mr Rishi Srivastava of the International Commission on Irrigation & Drainage emphasized India’s water storage challenges, pointing to a lack of infrastructure for effective rainwater harvesting. He noted, “While India has significant rainfall, harnessing it to meet the rising needs of agriculture and industry remains a challenge.”
International perspectives were shared by Mr Pieter Lodewijks of VITO/EnergyVille, who highlighted the role of renewable energy in sustainable farming, and Dr Hwanil Park from South Korea’s STEPI, who discussed water and food security initiatives in the Mekong region.
As the session concluded, participants reflected on the pressing need for holistic solutions. “Our goals are interconnected—water security impacts agriculture, energy, and economic growth. We must ensure our solutions are inclusive and leave no community behind,” said Mr Anshuman, Director at TERI.
The event also served as a prelude to the G-STIC 2025 conference, with South Africa set to host next year’s edition, focusing on innovation and resilience in sustainable development.