New Delhi: President Droupadi Murmu today conferred the 6th National Water Awards and the Jal Sanchay Jan Bhagidari Awards here, urging the country to renew its civic and governmental commitment to water conservation. A total of 46 winners across 10 categories were recognised for outstanding work in water management, alongside 100 achievers honoured for creating groundwater recharge structures under the Jal Sanchay Jan Bhagidari (JSJB) initiative.
Speaking at Vigyan Bhawan, the President said effective management of India’s water resources is possible only when “individuals, families, society and the government work together.” She applauded the rapid progress made under schemes such as the Jal Jeevan Mission—which has expanded rural tap water coverage from 17% to 81% in six years—and praised the completion of more than 35 lakh groundwater recharge structures under JSJB within a year of its launch.
According to PIB India, the President also invoked India’s cultural heritage, referencing the word “Sujalam” from the national song Vande Mataram to underline the centrality of water in nation-building. She said the collective effort to restore lakes, ponds, and wells is vital to achieving the national vision of a “Sujalam Bharat,” driven by community participation and sustainable practices.
Maharashtra secured the top position among states in the National Water Awards, followed by Gujarat and Haryana. Union Jal Shakti Minister C.R. Paatil said the awards were fostering healthy competition among states and institutions, adding that community-led conservation efforts—such as those seen in Banaskantha, Gujarat—demonstrate what grassroots participation can achieve without major government funding.
Senior officials from the Ministry of Jal Shakti highlighted progress under water-related schemes including Namami Gange, Atal Bhujal Yojana and Swachh Bharat. The event also saw the launch of the National Groundwater Resource Assessment and Quality Assessment reports for 2025, offering updated insights into the state of one of India’s most critical natural resources.
