MEKONG-GANGA DIALOGUE - Observer Research Foundation

The energy experts observed that water challenges are intimately connected
to the quest for more energy, especially groundwater pumping. The demand
for more energy is driving the demand for more water and vice-versa. It is
not possible to address water and energy issues in isolation from each other.
Critical issues of energy shortages, water unavailability, and production and
management inefficiencies require amalgamation of water and energy
priorities through integrated policy frameworks as well as political and social
engagements.
In line with the Mekong-Ganga future cooperative efforts, promotion of
integrated energy markets was seen as one of the effective ways of
improving energy efficiency in South Asia through re-invigorated existing
forums within ASEAN and SAARC as well as new ones such as the MGD.
2.2 FOOD PRODUCTION, POLICY AND PRACTICE
The Mekong and Ganga regions have substantial small-holder agricultural
systems with moderate contrast between policy, reality and practice. Since, the
bureaucracies in Asia have not yet internalized the new integrated knowledge
and understanding about river hydro-ecology, they tend to see rivers only as a
means of irrigation and energy on one hand and on the other, disconnectedly
perceive the food security agenda from a national security perspective without
adequate consideration of other aspects. Therefore, there is a startling gap in
food policies and implementation of sustainable practices for optimal utilization
20 Rouse Avenue, New Delhi – 110002 Ph 91.11.4350020 Fax 91.11.43520003 Email: sonali.mittra@orfonline.org
www.orfonline.org
9