President Murmu Honours Champions of India’s Water Conservation Efforts

National Recognition for Water Stewardship

President Murmu Honours Champions of India’s Water Conservation Efforts: On 18 November 2025, India celebrated a major moment in water governance as President Droupadi Murmu presented the Sixth National Water Awards and the Jal Sanchay-Jan Bhagidari recognitions in New Delhi. The ceremony highlighted India’s ongoing push to encourage scientific, community-driven, and technology-enabled approaches to water conservation.

The awards acknowledged institutions, industries, districts, and individuals who demonstrated measurable, innovative practices toward sustainable water management.
Static GK fact: The Ministry of Jal Shakti instituted the National Water Awards in 2018 to promote best practices across India.

Cultural Importance of Water in India

President Murmu emphasized that India’s civilizational values attach deep respect to water bodies. She referenced Bankim Chandra Chatterjee’s national song where the first word, “Sujalam,” signifies abundance of water, showcasing how the idea of prosperity is tied to rivers, lakes, and groundwater.

She noted that this traditional understanding must guide present-day water ethics, especially as population growth and climate variability affect the country’s hydrological balance.

Rising Challenges from Scarcity and Climate Change

India’s per capita water availability continues to decline due to increased demand and erratic monsoons linked to climate change. The President warned that the pressure on water resources requires coordinated action at all administrative levels.

She stressed that everyday citizens, farmers, and industries must adopt efficient water use technologies, from micro-irrigation to wastewater recycling.
Static GK Tip: India is classified as a “water-stressed” nation under Falkenmark Index criteria.

Milestones of the Jal Sanchay-Jan Bhagidari Initiative

A highlight of the event was the achievement of over 35 lakh groundwater recharge structures built under the Jal Sanchay-Jan Bhagidari (JSJB) programme within just one year. These structures strengthen India’s artificial recharge capacity and help revive groundwater tables in vulnerable regions.

Industries were also commended for embracing circular water economy systems, including zero liquid discharge (ZLD), proving that industrial efficiency and environmental responsibility can align effectively.

Collective Role of Communities and Institutions

The President reiterated that water security depends not only on government frameworks but also on participatory governance. Village panchayats, municipal bodies, NGOs, and students were urged to contribute to awareness campaigns and local water harvesting initiatives.

She praised tribal communities for their respectful relationship with natural resources, calling their practices a model for sustainable living across the country.

Celebrating the Winners

The 2024 winners represented diverse regions and sectors. Maharashtra won the Best State category, while districts like Rajnandgaon, Khargone, Tirunelveli, Mirzapur, and Sepahijala topped their respective zones.
Institutions such as IIT Gandhinagar, ICAR-CCARI Goa, and BITS Pilani secured leading ranks for campus-level water management.

Village panchayats from Andhra Pradesh, Kerala, Madhya Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, and Chhattisgarh earned recognition for replicable community models. Industries including Apollo Tyres, Hero MotoCorp, and Jhajjar Power Ltd. were acknowledged for adopting sustainable, measurable water practices.
Static GK fact: Village panchayats implement water conservation schemes under the Gram Panchayat Development Plan (GPDP) framework.

Importance of National Water Awards

The awards aim to inspire a nationwide movement focused on water security, innovation, and climate adaptation. They provide a platform to showcase scalable solutions that strengthen India’s preparedness for future water-related challenges.

Static Usthadian Current Affairs Table

President Murmu Honours Champions of India’s Water Conservation Efforts: