Surat: Prime Minister Narendra Modi virtually addressed the launch of the ‘Jal Sanchay Jan Bhagidari’ initiative in Surat, Gujarat, a major campaign aimed at enhancing water sustainability across the state. Under this initiative, approximately 24,800 rainwater harvesting structures are being constructed to improve rainwater collection and ensure long-term water conservation.
In his address, PM Modi emphasized the importance of water conservation, stating that it is not only a policy but a virtue tied to the future of humanity. “Water is not just a resource; it is the foundation of life and our future,” he remarked. He highlighted the recent torrential monsoon rains that impacted various regions of the country, including Gujarat, which experienced unprecedented rainfall. Despite these challenges, the Prime Minister praised the collective resilience of the people in Gujarat and across the nation.
PM Modi explained that India, despite being home to only 4% of the world’s freshwater, faces significant water scarcity, particularly due to the rapid depletion of water tables. He stressed that water conservation is ingrained in India’s cultural consciousness, with water traditionally regarded as sacred, and urged citizens to take collective action.
“Water conservation is not just a matter of policies but also a social commitment,” he noted, emphasizing public participation as a key factor in the success of such initiatives. Highlighting past efforts, he credited the successful commissioning of the Sardar Sarovar Dam and Sauni Yojna with ensuring water accessibility in drought-prone areas of Gujarat.
The Prime Minister underscored the government’s holistic approach to water management, referencing key initiatives like the Jal Jeevan Mission, which has expanded access to clean tap water from 3 crore households to over 15 crore. He praised the significant contributions of local Jal Samitis, especially the participation of women, in managing water resources across the country.
Modi also pointed to the ongoing ‘Catch the Rain’ campaign and the successful construction of over 60,000 Amrit Sarovars during the Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav as examples of public-driven water conservation efforts. He called for continued innovation, such as promoting drip irrigation and sustainable agriculture, to address India’s water challenges.
The ‘Jal Sanchay Jan Bhagidari’ initiative, with its focus on rainwater harvesting, marks another major step in India’s mission towards water sustainability. Gujarat has set a benchmark, Modi noted, by utilizing Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) funds to build over 10,000 borewell recharge structures, and the new campaign will expand these efforts statewide.
Concluding his address, Prime Minister Modi expressed optimism that India would become a global leader in water conservation, inspiring other nations to adopt sustainable water management practices.
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