President Droupadi Murmu has highlighted the importance of collective responsibility in the conservation of water resources. During her address at the 5th National Water Awards ceremony held in New Delhi, she urged citizens to engage actively in efforts to secure water availability in India. She stated, “We must remember that conservation of water resources is a collective responsibility and building a water-secure India is not possible without our active participation.”

Murmu reflected on the historical significance of water, noting that nearly all civilisations have thrived around rivers. She remarked on the deep-rooted connection between humans and water, which has shaped human history. However, she expressed concern that society often overlooks the critical importance of water conservation, leading to detrimental consequences.

In her speech, the President raised alarms about the contamination of freshwater resources. She pointed out that despite the finite nature of freshwater availability, there is a persistent neglect towards effective water management and conservation practices. Murmu noted that human activities have led to the deterioration and depletion of these vital resources.

Current Water Availability and Challenges

According to a study titled “Reassessment of Water Availability in India using Space Inputs, 2019,” conducted by the Central Water Commission, the average annual per capita water availability is projected to decline. The estimates for 2021 and 2031 are 1,486 cubic metres and 1,367 cubic metres, respectively. A per capita water availability of less than 1,700 cubic metres indicates a water-stressed condition, while below 1,000 cubic metres signifies water scarcity.

The increasing population in India has contributed significantly to the reduction in per capita water availability. This trend poses a challenge for ensuring sustainable water resources for the growing population. The government is aware of these challenges and has initiated various programmes aimed at water conservation and management.

The central government has launched multiple initiatives to address water scarcity and ensure safe drinking water for all citizens. The Jal Jeevan Mission (JJM) aims to provide tap water supply to every rural household by 2024. Additionally, the AMRUT 2.0 scheme, introduced on October 1, 2021, seeks to achieve universal water supply coverage across all statutory towns.

Government Initiatives for Water Conservation

To optimise water usage, the Pradhan Mantri Krishi Sinchayee Yojna (PMKSY) has been in operation since 2015-16. This programme prioritises irrigation projects and aims to enhance water efficiency in agricultural practices. The government has extended PMKSY until 2025-26, with a total budget of Rs 93,068.56 crore.

Moreover, the Command Area Development and Water Management (CADWM) Programme has been integrated into PMKSY – Har Khet Ko Pani since its inception. The Bureau of Water Use Efficiency (BWUE) has also been established to promote and regulate efficient water usage across irrigation, industrial, and domestic sectors.

In an effort to encourage sustainable agricultural practices, the “Sahi Fasal” campaign has been launched to motivate farmers in water-stressed areas to cultivate less water-intensive crops. Furthermore, the Mission Amrit Sarovar was initiated on National Panchayati Raj Day in 2022, aiming to conserve water by rejuvenating and developing 75 water bodies in each district across the country.

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