Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister (CM) Dr Mohan Yadav on Saturday led the inaugural ceremony of a national seminar centred on Green Building Technology, alongside the 113th governing council meeting of the Indian Building Congress. He set the event in motion by lighting a ceremonial lamp at the Kushbhau Thakre Auditorium, followed by a rendition of Vande Mataram. 

The state’s Public Works Department (PwD) Minister Rakesh Singh accorded a warm welcome to the Chief Minister on the occasion. A short film showcasing the PwD’s project implementation unit was screened after this, and official publications, such as a souvenir, newsletter and the IBC’s Built Environment Journal were released.

During this, the department also signed Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) with IIT Indore and GRIHA Council to promote sustainable construction practices. 

CM credits PM Modi for bridging ancient knowledge with science

CM Dr Yadav took over the podium and underscored India’s rich architectural heritage, citing the contributions of Raja Bhoj and the relevance of traditional construction techniques. He stressed that the world is composed of five elements, with Earth at its core, and highlighted Dongla near Ujjain as a historic centre of geographical, as well as time calculations. 

Continuing his statements, he credited Prime Minister (PM) Narendra Modi for bridging ancient knowledge with modern scientific approaches. 

Water conservation campaign underway

He then reaffirmed the MP government’s commitment to development, while ensuring sufficient use of resources through green building practices. He acknowledged global warming as a pressing climate challenge, and announced an ongoing water conservation campaign from Gudi Padwa to Ganga Dussehra. 

As per the initiative, wells, stepwells and other water structures across MP are being restored. Notably, the state ranks first in the country for water conservation efforts, with Badwani and Khandwa districts leading the way. 

Govt buildings in state constructed using green building techniques: Minister Singh

After the CM’s address, Minister Singh also highlighted the revival of ancient Indian construction methods, emphasising their roots in the Indus Valley Civilisation. He also cited the Angkor Wat as a global example of harmony between architecture and nature.

Further in his address, he said that all new government buildings across the state are being constructed using green building techniques, ensuring up-to-date ventilation and natural lighting.