22 March,2026 09:38 AM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondent
Sustainable water management in focus on World Water Day. Representational Pic
Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday marked World Water Day 2026, emphasising the importance of water in shaping the future of the planet.
In a post on X, he wrote, "Water sustains us and shapes our planet's future. On World Water Day, let us reaffirm our commitment to conserve every drop of water and use it responsibly."
He also acknowledged the efforts of individuals and organizations engaged in sustainable practices and raising awareness about water conservation.
World Water Day, observed annually on March 22 since 1993, is dedicated to highlighting the importance of freshwater and the urgent need for sustainable water management.
This year's World Water Day theme, "Water and Gender," highlights the need for inclusive and equitable water management. Women often play a key role in collecting and managing water but have limited say in decisions. The theme urges governments, industries, and communities to ensure women are included in planning, policy-making, and water governance, so that water security is achieved fairly and sustainably for everyone.
The Ministry of Jal Shakti will organize the World Water Day Conclave 2026 on March 23 at the Dr. Ambedkar International Centre in New Delhi. The event will focus on the theme "Industry for Water" and will be attended by the Union Minister of Jal Shakti, CR Paatil, along with senior government officials and industry representatives as per ANI reports.
The conclave aims to create a national platform for dialogue and collaboration on sustainable water management. It will bring together policymakers, industry leaders, academia, startups, MSMEs, and young innovators to co-develop scalable, technology-driven solutions for efficient water use.
A key highlight of the conclave is the promotion of water stewardship in industry. Industries are being encouraged to shift from simply using water to actively managing it responsibly. Initiatives include water recycling, reuse, and adopting smarter technologies for sustainable water management.
The event will feature the felicitation of Jal Shakti Hackathon winners, recognising innovative solutions in the water sector. State governments will also participate, with sessions dedicated to census data and the release of major national water reports, emphasizing data-driven water governance.
States and Union Territories are encouraged to organize awareness programs on water conservation. Activities may include rainwater harvesting, efficient water use in urban areas, community-led initiatives, and collaboration with industries.
The conclave aims to promote a "whole-of-government" and "whole-of-society" approach, encouraging all stakeholders to take responsibility for water security and sustainability.
The World Water Day Conclave embodies the theme "Ideas. Innovation. Action." by bringing together government, industry, and academia to foster research, innovation, and partnerships. This collaborative approach aims to create a water-secure and resilient India, where both policy and practice contribute to responsible water use.
World Water Day serves as a reminder that water is a vital resource that sustains life and the planet. Through national initiatives like the World Water Day Conclave and the promotion of sustainable practices, India aims to address water scarcity, climate change, and equitable access, ensuring that every drop counts toward a brighter, water-secure future.
(With ANI Inputs)
