Indore, April 17, 2026 – The Center of Excellence in Sustainable Development at Shri Vaishnav University successfully conducted an inspiring seminar today, April 17, 2026, under the "Jimmy Magilligan Memorial Sustainable Development Week". The theme of the seminar was "Human Responsibility: Utilizing Water for Sustainable Development of People and the Earth."

This event was part of the ongoing "Jimmy Magilligan Memorial Sustainable Development Week," which runs from April 15 to April 21, 2026, with the central message of “Small Changes, Big Impact – Save Water.”

The seminar commenced with a welcoming address by the esteemed Vice-Chancellor, Professor Dr. Yogesh C. Goswami, who emphasized the fundamental principles of sustainable development and the necessity for prudent water usage.

• Padmashree Dr. (Mrs.) Janak Palta Magilligan (Director, Jimmy Magilligan Center for Sustainable Development, Indore) shared her life experiences, noting that awareness of water conservation became integral to her life from the age of 16. She highlighted her 25 years of work with her husband, Mr. Jimmy Magilligan, at the Barli Development Institute, empowering 6,000 tribal women through initiatives like solar kitchens, rainwater harvesting, and sustainable development. She mentioned that in 1998, Jimmy established the largest solar community kitchen in Central India, which continues to serve meals for 150 people today.


• Renowned Geologist and Groundwater Scientist Mr. Sudhindra Mohan Sharma explained water conservation through engaging and practical examples. He referenced films like "Geet Gata Chal" and "Blue Gold," identifying the water crisis as a global issue. He elaborated on the 7R principles (Reduce, Reuse, Recycle, Recharge, Restore, Rejuvenate, Respect) and cited ancient Indian water conservation traditions, such as the Modhera Sun Temple and the Turiya Jhalras of Jodhpur.

Dr. Janak Palta Magilligan concluded with an inspiring message:

“The welfare of the world will not happen by itself; it is only possible through the efforts of each individual.”

The seminar was skillfully coordinated by Dr. Uttam Sharma (Coordinator) and Dr. Shweta Agarwal (Co-Coordinator).

This seminar proved to be a significant step towards water conservation and sustainable living for students, educators, and environmental enthusiasts.