Ranchi: As part of the exercise to develop a robust, integrated and sustainable water management system in Jharkhand by 2050, a high-level consultation on the state-specific action plan (SSAP) for water was held on Thursday at the Central University of Jharkhand (CUJ), Ranchi.The event, organised in collaboration with the water resources department, govt of Jharkhand, brought together experts, scientists, engineers, academicians and policymakers from across the state and country.The participants put forward several important suggestions, including making rainwater harvesting mandatory, reviving traditional water conservation practices in rural areas, developing digital platforms for water data management, enhancing community participation and strengthening coordination between policy and implementation.During the discussion, SSAP nodal officer Ajay Singh presented the interim SSAP report, highlighting that the plan adopts an integrated water resource management approach along with a climate-resilient perspective. The report included multi-sectoral strategies covering agriculture, industry, urban development and environmental conservation, he stated.Singh added that suggestions advanced during the workshop would be incorporated into the final report to make it more practical and effective.The CUJ informed that the primary objective of the programme was to analyse existing challenges related to water availability, distribution, conservation and management in Jharkhand, and to formulate a long-term strategy.During the inaugural session, CUJ vice-chancellor Sarang Medhekar emphasised the need for increased use of data analytics, remote sensing and modern technologies in water management.