President Droupadi Murmu Presents Fifth National Water Awards
Calls for Collective Action on Water Conservation
New Delhi, October 22, 2024: The President of India, Smt. Droupadi Murmu, today presented the fifth National Water Awards at a ceremony in New Delhi, emphasizing the importance of water conservation and management. In her speech, the President highlighted the fundamental role of water as a basic necessity and a human right, noting its vital connection to public health, food security, and the livelihoods of underprivileged communities.
President Murmu expressed concern over the depletion and pollution of freshwater resources, despite widespread knowledge of their limited availability. She commended the Government of India for taking proactive steps to promote water conservation and harvesting but stressed the need for greater awareness and action at both community and individual levels.
“Water conservation is deeply rooted in our traditions,” the President remarked, recalling how past generations built ponds and reservoirs to ensure water availability during shortages. She also pointed out the harmful consequences of encroachment on these reservoirs, which not only reduces water availability during droughts but also leads to flooding during heavy rains.
The President urged the public to take small yet significant steps in daily life, such as turning off taps, preventing water overflow, implementing water harvesting at homes, and restoring traditional water bodies. “Building a Water-Secure India requires the collective responsibility of all,” she stated.
The National Water Awards, according to the President, are a commendable initiative that promotes sustainable water management practices. She expressed confidence that the best practices demonstrated by the awardees would inspire broader efforts to conserve and efficiently manage water resources.
The awards were presented in nine categories, including Best State, Best District, Best Village Panchayat, Best Urban Local Body, Best School or College, Best Industry, Best Water User Association, Best Institution (other than school or college), and Best Civil Society, aimed at fostering awareness and encouraging the adoption of best practices for water conservation across various sectors.
