Date:05/02/2005 URL: http://www.thehindu.com/2005/02/05/stories/2005020503950300.htm

Other States - Rajasthan

More dams needed for India's development: Vajpayee

GWALIOR, FEB. 4. Stressing the need for construction of more dams for the nation's development, environment and even tourism, the former Prime Minister, Atal Bihari Vajpayee, today quoted 17th century poet Rahim, to say "Bin Pani Sab Soon" (without water there's no life).

"In our lives, water is priceless. Rahiman Pani Rakhiye Bin Pani Sab Soon, Pani Gaye Na Ubray Moti, Manas, Choon (sans water, pearls, humans and lime have no existence)," Mr Vajpayee said while reciting the couplet during his address at the foundation stone-laying ceremony of the Rs 1.25-crore water sports centre at the Tighra reservoir.

Pointing out that there was no dearth of water in the country, the veteran politician regretted that the available amount was not being utilised properly.

"Rainwater is not being harvested in lakes and ponds. Most of the resource flows away down rivers. We have neglected water but there's a great need to conserve the same by employing scientific methods," he added.

Once water conservation takes place, lake tourism, a money earner, could be encouraged and it could also prove beneficial for the environment. Development of tourism sector will provide a shot in the arm for employment resources.

There are several countries that manage their entire economy on income from tourism alone, he added.

Congratulating Chief Minister Babulal Gaur and his cabinet colleagues for Madhya Pradesh's development, Mr. Vajpayee expressed confidence that the State could join a global race for progress.

"Nothing will be achieved if anyone sits around dejected or gets irritated with himself. Nobody should be overawed by difficulties.

India has no paucity of either work or workers and the nation can be brought on the path of progress by toiling in the right direction," he added. -- UNI