New Delhi, Nov 18 (UNI) President Droupadi Murmu on Tuesday stressed the need for prioritization of water conservation and consistent management at the level of central and state governments, district administrations, village panchayats and municipal bodies. Speaking at a function here to present the sixth National Water Awards and Jal Sanchay Jan Bhagidari Awards the President advised farmers and entrepreneurs to adopt innovative methods of maximizing production while minimizing water consumption.
Pointing out that effective water management is possible only with the participation of individuals, families, society and the government, she called for making the most efficient use of water resources an integral part of lifestyle.
‘’In our tradition rivers, lakes and other water sources are revered. In our national song, the first word Bankim Chandra Chatterjee wrote is Sujalam. This means ‘blessed with abundant water resources.’ This fact reflects the priority of water for our country,’’ she said.
Describing the efficient water use a global imperative, she said efficient water use is even more crucial for our country because our water resources are limited compared to the population. Per capita water availability is a major challenge. She underlined that climate change is affecting the water cycle. In such circumstances, the government and the public should work together to ensure water availability and water security.
The President said that by adopting circular water economy systems, all industries and other stakeholders can make effective use of water resources.
She noted that along with water treatment and recirculation, many industrial units have achieved the target of zero fluid discharge. Such efforts are useful for water management and conservation.
The President advised people to remain constantly vigilant about water conservation, both individually and collectively. It is crucial to spread water awareness in our country’s public consciousness. Water can only be harvested and conserved through the power of the people, she added.
The National Water Awards aim to create awareness among the people about the importance of water and motivate them to adopt the best water usage practices.
The Jal Sanchay Jan Bhagidari (JSJB) initiative has been leading to the emergence of diverse, scalable, and replicable models for artificial groundwater recharge through community participation and convergence of resources. Under the initiative launched last year, more than 35 lakh groundwater recharge structures have been constructed.
President Murmu calls for water conservation and management
