New Delhi: The President of India, Droupadi Murmu, inaugurated the 8th India Water Week today, emphasizing the critical need to address global water scarcity and ensure sustainable water management. The event, held in New Delhi, brought together policymakers, experts, and leaders to discuss strategies for inclusive water development and effective management of water resources.
In her inaugural address, President Murmu highlighted the global importance of reducing water scarcity, aligning her remarks with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). “Water scarcity is a challenge that affects all of humanity. Under the SDGs, we must support and strengthen local communities to improve water and sanitation management,” she stated.
President Murmu also underscored India’s long history of water conservation, dating back to ancient times. “From Ladakh to Kerala, our ancestors had effective systems for water conservation and management, which disappeared during British rule. These systems were harmonious with nature and are now being reconsidered worldwide as sustainable solutions,” she said. The President called for further research and practical application of these ancient water management techniques in today’s context.
Drawing an analogy between water conservation and financial savings, the President urged citizens to take proactive steps in storing water. “Just like depositing money in a bank ensures financial security, storing water ensures water security. Even in rain-rich areas, we see water scarcity due to poor management. Villages that store water, even in low rainfall regions, are protected from crises. The efforts of villagers in Rajasthan and Gujarat, who have overcome water scarcity through effective storage methods, are commendable,” she remarked.
President Murmu emphasized that only 2.5% of the earth’s water is freshwater, and merely 1% of that is available for human use. India’s share of the world’s water resources is only 4%, with 80% of its water consumed in agriculture. She stressed that the growing demand for water across agriculture, power generation, industry, and domestic needs can only be met through efficient usage.
The President lauded the government’s 2021 “Catch the Rain – Where it Falls, When it Falls” campaign, aimed at promoting water conservation and rainwater harvesting. She highlighted the importance of increasing forest cover for effective water management and called on children to play a role in water conservation by raising awareness in their families and communities.
“Jal Shakti efforts must be transformed into a mass movement. Every citizen has to become a ‘water-warrior,'” President Murmu said, urging collective action toward sustainable water use.
The theme of ‘India Water Week 2024’ – inclusive water development and management – was praised by President Murmu, who applauded the Ministry of Jal Shakti for focusing on partnership and cooperation. “The Ministry has chosen the right medium to achieve our goals: partnership and cooperation,” she said, emphasizing that collaboration at all levels is essential for ensuring the equitable distribution and efficient use of water.