PATNA, Dec. 31 -- Renowned water resources expert Professor Vijay P Singh, distinguished professor at Texas A&M University, USA, here on Tuesday underlined an urgent need for integrating all water systems in Bihar, including wetlands and traditional harvesting structures, to achieve long-term sustainable development in the face of geopolitical constraints, ecological risks and climate change. Prof Singh was speaking as the key speaker at a round-table discussion here at the Engineer Bhawan, on the topic of "Need for Integration of Water Resources Systems (Including Wetlands) in Bihar under the Prevailing Geopolitical Situation and Ecological & Climate Change Risks." The event was jointly organized by the Bihar Engineering Service Association (BESA) and the Indian Water Resources Society (IWRS), with support from the Sustainable Development Forum of the Institution of Engineers (India). The session began with BESA president Sunil Kumar welcoming Prof Singh with a plant sapling. BESA general secretary Rakesh Kumar delivered the welcome address, while DP Singh introduced the speaker and shed light on the discussion topic. Prof Singh highlighted the state's rich historical heritage in water management, noting that ancient sites like Nalanda, Pataliputra (modern Patna), Bodh Gaya, Vaishali and Mithila prospered due to resilient water practices, including moats, irrigation systems and created wetlands for protection and navigation. "Despite owning only about 2.8% of India's land, Bihar holds around 8% of its freshwater resources. However, with a population comprising nearly 10% of India's 1.42 billion people and a high decadal growth rate, the state faces immense pressure on these resources. Irrigation is critical for food security, alongside domestic, industrial, navigation and environmental needs, amid rising climate variability," added Singh....