On Wednesday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi emphasized the need for urban local bodies to better understand the challenges posed by urbanization, such as increasing population and future water needs.
Speaking at the concluding session of the Ministry of Jal Shakti’s two-day National Departmental Summit on Water, Modi encouraged the adoption of water-saving technologies. He proposed that dedicated workshops and exhibitions be organized to help Indian manufacturers and stakeholders learn from best practices around the world.
The Prime Minister highlighted the importance of public involvement, suggesting that events like “Jal Utsav” could boost awareness about water issues among citizens. He also called for regular de-silting programs and the establishment of clear guidelines and procedures for this important task.
During his address, Modi underscored the significance of ensuring dam safety, advocating for thorough preparations ahead of the monsoon season. He stressed the importance of educating school children about water safety as part of the school curriculum. Additionally, he pointed out the need to enhance knowledge and skills regarding water management in universities and other higher education institutions.
Modi commended the fruitful discussions held during the summit and called for actionable steps that should be continuously reviewed and improved upon. He proposed that the summit’s outcomes be seen as part of an ongoing effort rather than a one-time event. He also recommended organized study visits involving public representatives, officials, and farmers to learn from successful practices implemented in other areas.
The Prime Minister called for better governance of water data, advocating for its systematic collection, management, and use. He suggested harnessing artificial intelligence (AI) for data analysis, which could lead to better planning for water scarcity by utilizing treated water for agriculture and industry.
Drawing from his experiences as Gujarat’s chief minister, Modi noted that water shortages could be turned into opportunities with thorough planning, dedication, and effective resource allocation.
In a social media post after the event, he stated, “Water security is crucial for India and the planet. It requires innovative ideas, technology, and above all, public participation.” He added that key priorities from the summit included increasing public engagement, improving data use through AI, and promoting technologies that make water use more efficient.
The summit marked the first of several planned departmental meetings aimed at fostering collaboration between the central and state governments, reinforcing the spirit of teamwork in addressing national priorities.
C R Patil, the Union Minister for Jal Shakti, highlighted four main outcomes of the summit: speeding up water infrastructure projects, promoting water conservation as a community effort, ensuring the sustainability of drinking water sources, and establishing effective management of rural drinking water systems.
After the session, Patil shared his thoughts on social media, noting that the Prime Minister has made water a shared responsibility, connecting it to a broader public movement. He expressed confidence that with the Prime Minister’s guidance, both the central and state governments would work together to achieve a water-secure and prosperous India by conserving every drop of rainwater.
