Patna: The Bihar Water Resources Department honoured nine engineers for outstanding work during 2025-26 at an Engineers’ Day programme held at the Irrigation Bhawan auditorium on September 15.
The programme was organised to mark the birth anniversary of Sir Mokshagundam Visvesvaraya. Deputy Chief Minister-cum-Water Resources Minister Vijay Kumar Choudhary and department secretary Dr Chandrashekhar Singh inaugurated the event by lighting a ceremonial lamp and paying floral tributes to Visvesvaraya.
The nine engineers were presented with mementoes and certificates of appreciation for their contributions during the year.
Minister Calls For Work That Leaves A Lasting Impact
Addressing the programme, Choudhary said Sir M Visvesvaraya continued to be remembered for his far-sighted and exemplary work, particularly in the field of water resources.
He urged engineers to draw inspiration from Visvesvaraya and undertake work that could make a lasting contribution to society and be remembered by future generations.
The minister said an engineer’s professional identity was shaped not only by technical expertise but also by the results of their work, their conduct and their engagement with local communities.
He stressed the importance of maintaining effective communication and coordination with local residents while implementing departmental projects.
Flood-Fighting Work In Bhagalpur Praised
Choudhary referred to the department’s recent flood-fighting work in Kharik block of Bhagalpur district, praising officials and engineers for their efforts during difficult conditions.
He said the situation had made protecting the embankment particularly challenging. However, the dedication and timely intervention of the engineers helped protect the embankment.
The minister also noted that local residents appreciated the department’s efforts, highlighting the importance of field-level coordination and preparedness during flood emergencies.
Climate Change To Create New Water Challenges
Water Resources Department secretary Dr Chandrashekhar Singh congratulated engineers on Engineers’ Day and highlighted the demanding conditions in which department personnel work, particularly during floods.
He said engineers often remain in the field around the clock during flood emergencies, using technical expertise and quick decision-making to respond to changing situations.
Singh said changing climate conditions are expected to bring additional challenges, including changes in rainfall patterns, sudden rises in river water levels and increasing demand for water.
He said engineers would need to use their technical capabilities effectively to address challenges related to drinking water, industrial development, water management and water security.
Nine Engineers Receive Awards
The engineers honoured during the programme were Chandra Shekhar Kumar, Shahid Kamal, Iftikhar Imam, Vijay Ranjan, Suraj Kumar, Anil Kumar, Prashant Kumar, Kiran Kumari and Amrendra Kumar.
They were presented with mementoes and certificates of appreciation for their outstanding work during 2025-26.
The recognition formed part of the department’s Engineers’ Day programme to acknowledge contributions to its field operations and water management responsibilities.
Senior Officials Attend Programme
Engineer-in-Chief Varun Kumar delivered the welcome address, while consultant I.C. Thakur gave the vote of thanks.
The programme was attended by senior officials including Special Secretary K.D. Praujwal, consultant Ravindra Shankar, Engineer-in-Chief Brajesh Mohan, Engineer-in-Chief Nikhil Kumar and Chief Engineer Dharmendra Kumar, along with other senior officers and engineers of the department.
The event highlighted the importance of technical preparedness, flood management, water security and sustainable water resource planning as Bihar prepares to deal with increasingly complex water-related challenges.
