New Delhi, March 23 Union Jal Shakti (Water and Power) Minister C R Patil emphasized the urgent need for water conservation and active citizen participation to ensure India's future water security on Monday.
Addressing the World Water Day Conclave at the Dr Ambedkar International Centre, Patil felicitated officials from the Jal Shakti Ministry and other related departments for their contributions to water management.
He emphasized that water is fundamental to life, agriculture, industry, and development, and called for increased rainwater harvesting and protection of water sources from pollution.
Patil said, "I urge all citizens to conserve water in every possible way – collecting rainwater from rooftops into pits or trenches, using stones and pipes to direct water into the ground. Even 100 mm of rainfall can store one lakh litres per household. Water is not just a right. It is our responsibility. If we fail to conserve, future generations will suffer."
The minister outlined the progress of key initiatives under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, including the Jal Jeevan Mission, which has provided tap water to around 15.80 crore households, and the Namami Gange programme, aimed at restoring the Ganga's water quality.
He said the National Water Data Policy, launched on the occasion, will enable evidence-based decision-making for sustainable water management.
Referring to former prime minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee's warning that a third world war could be fought over water, Patil said India is well prepared to meet its water needs under the current government's leadership.
