President of India Droupadi Murmu emphasized the urgent need for collective water conservation efforts while addressing Jal Mahotsav 2026 in New Delhi. The event, organised by the Ministry of Jal Shakti, highlights the importance of community participation and sustainable management of water resources under the Jal Jeevan Mission.
Addressing the gathering, President Droupadi Murmu said that water in India is deeply connected with culture, traditions, livelihoods and community life. She noted that for decades, especially in rural areas, villagers had to travel long distances to fetch drinking water. Women and children were often burdened with this responsibility, making access to safe drinking water not merely a matter of convenience but one of dignity, health and time.
President Droupadi Murmu stated that the launch of the Jal Jeevan Mission by the Government of India has significantly transformed access to drinking water in rural areas. Villages that once faced severe water scarcity now have access to clean and safe drinking water directly in their homes through tap connections.
Community Participation Key To Water Sustainability
President Droupadi Murmu underlined that sustainable water management requires active participation from society and not just government initiatives. She said conservation becomes more effective and long lasting when communities take ownership of natural resources.
She expressed confidence that the observance of Jal Arpan Diwas, which formally transfers the responsibility of water supply infrastructure to gram panchayats, would strengthen community ownership and encourage responsible management of local water resources.
According to the President, empowering local institutions such as gram panchayats ensures that water infrastructure is maintained effectively and that communities remain actively involved in its upkeep and management.
Role Of Women And Self Help Groups
President Droupadi Murmu also highlighted the important role played by Self Help Groups in strengthening water management systems in rural India. She noted that many Self Help Groups are actively engaged in water testing, operational management and maintenance of water supply infrastructure.
She said the dedication and commitment of women through Self Help Groups have brought significant positive changes in rural communities. According to President Droupadi Murmu, empowering women to participate in water governance and management can play a crucial role in ensuring long term water security.
Coordinated Approach To Strengthen Water Security
President Droupadi Murmu stressed that strengthening water security requires coordinated and multi dimensional strategies. She said the government is promoting greywater management in rural areas through coordination with the Clean India Mission.
Efforts are also underway in collaboration with the Central Groundwater Board and other institutions to promote groundwater recharge, water conservation and sustainable use of water resources.
President Droupadi Murmu said public campaigns such as Catch the Rain and Jal Sanchay Jan Bhagidari are encouraging communities to actively participate in rainwater harvesting and conservation efforts.
She noted that coordinated efforts between government agencies, local communities and civil society are essential to ensure long term sustainability of water resources.
Water Conservation A Collective Responsibility
President Droupadi Murmu urged citizens to treat water not as a commodity but as a precious national resource that must be preserved for future generations.
She said water conservation must become an integral part of daily life and emphasized the importance of spreading awareness among the younger generation about responsible water management.
According to President Droupadi Murmu, building awareness and fostering responsible habits among young people will play a critical role in securing India’s water future.
She expressed confidence that Jal Mahotsav will evolve into a nationwide movement that promotes public participation in water conservation and strengthens India’s long term water security.
Nationwide Campaign Under Jal Jeevan Mission
Jal Mahotsav 2026 is being organised by the Ministry of Jal Shakti as a nationwide campaign from 8 March to 22 March. The initiative aims to strengthen community participation and public ownership in rural drinking water service delivery under the Jal Jeevan Mission.
The campaign focuses on encouraging community engagement, promoting water conservation practices and ensuring the sustainability of rural drinking water systems across the country.
Officials said the programme is part of the broader effort to reinforce the principles of Jan Bhagidari by encouraging citizens, local institutions and communities to actively participate in safeguarding water resources.
