President Droupadi Murmu on Tuesday presented the sixth National Water Awards and the Jal Sanchay-Jan Bhagidari Awards at a ceremony held in New Delhi, highlighting the growing national focus on water conservation and community-driven water management.
Addressing the gathering, the President said that water has always played a central role in the development of human civilization, noting that settlements across history have emerged around rivers, lakes and other water sources. She added that India’s cultural traditions revere its water bodies, and even the national song begins with the word Sujalam, underscoring the nation’s respect for abundant water resources.
The President stressed that efficient water use has become a global necessity, and that India faces additional challenges because its water resources are limited relative to its population. She warned that climate change is further disrupting the water cycle, making it essential for governments and citizens to work together to ensure water availability and long-term water security.
Highlighting progress under the Jal Sanchay-Jan Bhagidari initiative launched last year, the President said more than 35 lakh groundwater recharge structures have already been created through community participation.
She called for the adoption of circular water economy systems across industries, noting that several industrial units have achieved zero liquid discharge by treating and reusing water. Such efforts, she said, are important for strengthening water management and conservation practices.
President Murmu emphasised the need for coordinated action across central and state governments, district administrations, panchayats and urban bodies. She also acknowledged the contributions of educational institutions, citizen groups and NGOs that are working to promote water conservation. Farmers and entrepreneurs, she said, should adopt innovative ways to increase productivity while reducing water use.
She added that individuals also play a vital role in the water conservation chain, noting that tribal communities have long treated natural resources, including water, with deep respect. Responsible water use, she said, must become an integral part of everyday life for all citizens.
The President urged people to remain vigilant about saving water and to help spread awareness about its importance. “Water can only be harvested and conserved through the power of the people,” she said.
The National Water Awards aim to promote awareness about the importance of water and encourage best practices in its use. The Jal Sanchay-Jan Bhagidari initiative seeks to develop scalable and replicable models for artificial groundwater recharge through community participation.