By Nishtha Paliwal

India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi (left), France's President Emmanuel Macron (center) and India's President Droupadi Murmu (right) were at the reception to mark India's 75th Republic Day, hosted at Rashtrapati Bhavan, the president's official residence in New Delhi, India. Photo: Office of the President.
India’s Prime Minister Narendra Modi (left), France’s President Emmanuel Macron (center) and India’s President Droupadi Murmu (right) were at the reception to mark India’s 75th Republic Day, hosted at Rashtrapati Bhavan, the president’s official residence in New Delhi, India. Photo: Office of the President.

The International Water Management Institute (IWMI) participated in the reception marking India’s 75th Republic Day, hosted at the President’s official residence in New Delhi on January 26, 2024. India’s Country Representative, Alok Sikka, represented IWMI at the event and had a chance to discuss with high-level attendees the organization’s commitment to promoting sustainable water management practices.

“I am deeply honored and immensely delighted to have been extended the privilege of attending this year’s Republic Day reception at the President’s House as one of its eminent citizens,” Sikka said. “This recognition not only fills me with pride, but also underscores the significant role of IWMI, the institution I had the honor of representing.”

The invitation, from the President of India Droupadi Murmu, is a testament to IWMI’s contribution to water management in the country and its standing in the national research community.

Republic Day marks the adoption of the constitution of India and the country’s transition to a republic. The guest of honor at this year’s celebration was the President of France, Emmanuel Macron.