World Population day was observed by the Institution of Engineers, India
Rourkela : World Population Day was observed by the Institution of Engineers (India), Rourkela Local Centre Building, NIT Campus, Rourkela. The event was conducted in a hybrid mode, both online and offline, on the topic “Population Management at Crossroad”. The speaker for the occasion was Er. Nalini Kanta Dhar, Investment Consultant & Columnist, NISM (SEBI) Certified. The programme was coordinated by the Honorary Secretary, Er. Himansu Satapathy. The meeting was chaired by Chairman, Er. Diptankar Mahapatra, who delivered the welcome address. In his address, he emphasized that Population management is one of the defining challenges of our time, with far-reaching implications for economic development, environmental sustainability, healthcare, education, urban planning, employment, and the overall quality of life. As countries pursue the goals of sustainable development, achieving a balance between population growth and the availability of resources has become a critical policy priority and a significant global challenge. The Honorary Secretary briefly introduced the speaker and invited Er. Dhar to deliver his lecture.
In his presentation, Er. Dhar highlighted that population management is one of the most significant challenges facing governments and societies in the 21st century. Population growth presents both opportunities and challenges, much like two sides of the same coin. Its impact on a nation ultimately depends on how effectively it is managed through sound policies, institutional capacity, and investment in human development. Rapid population growth places considerable pressure on natural resources and poses challenges to environmental sustainability, food and water security, urbanization, employment generation, healthcare, education, and social equity. Conversely, a large working-age population can generate substantial demographic dividends by expanding the labour force, increasing productivity, stimulating entrepreneurship, enlarging domestic markets, fostering innovation, and accelerating economic growth. A diverse population can also strengthen cultural exchange and enhance global collaboration. As the world’s most populous country, India presents a unique demographic landscape characterized by significant regional, social, and economic diversity. The coexistence of highly developed urban regions alongside less developed rural areas highlights the need for a nuanced and evidence-based approach to population management. India’s population policy should therefore be rational, scientific, inclusive, and grounded in the constitutional principles of equity, justice, and human dignity. Such an approach will enable the country to harness its demographic potential while ensuring sustainable and inclusive development for present and future generations.
The presentation was followed by an engaging interactive session involving industrialists and academicians. Subsequently, Er. Mahapatra presented a certificate of merit and a memento to Er. Dhar in recognition of his insightful contribution. The programme concluded with a vote of thanks proposed by the Honorary Secretary, Er. Himansu Satapathy. A total of 30 members and guests participated in the event, both online and offline.
Reported by Kunja Bihari Rout
