The Water Cup Contest 2017, organised by Paani Foundation with an initiative of actor Aamir Khan for a drought-free Maharashtra, was launched in Mumbai. Sakal Media Group’s Managing Director and Founder of Delivering Change Foundation Abhijit Pawar (L) and Aamir Khan were present on the occasion.
The Water Cup Contest organised by ‘Paani Foundation’ with an initiative of film actor Aamir Khan is becoming a people’s movement and Jalsena or volunteers working in the field of watershed management are coming forward through this initiative, Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis said here in a statement. He spoke at the function held at Sahyadri guest house in Mumbai. This year, the competition will be held in 30 talukas in 13 districts of the state.
Aamir Khan, Kiran Rao, Satyajeet Bhatkal, Dr Avinash Pol, Popatrao Pawar, film director Nagraj Manjule, music director Ajay Atul and representatives of Tata, Piramal and Reliance companies were present.
Sakal Media Group’s Managing Director and Founder of Delivering Change Foundation Abhijit Pawar was present as a special invitee. Due to efforts taken by Aamir Khan, a people’s movement has been created in many drought-struck villages of the state, added Fadnavis.
He further stated that the water conservation slogan of the State government remained just a slogan and could not become a people’s movement in the past. Aamir Khan said that last year, through the competition organised by Paani Foundation, 1,368 crore litres of water was collected. He added that through public participation, this unbelievable feat was made possible in just 45 days. He said that if a similar experiment is repeated this year, then, he would be happier than the success and happiness he has received through the success of his recent film Dangal.
CM praises Abhijit Pawar
Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis praised Sakal Media Group’s Managing Director and Founder of Delivering Change Foundation Abhijit Pawar for his work. Fadnavis said that Sakal Media Group is making significant contribution in the area of water conservation. He added that Tanishka Women’s Dignity Forum, the women’s network of Sakal Media Group, has also made significant efforts to conserve water. Fadnavis added that through such positive efforts, it is now possible to overcome the challenge of water scarcity.