The Second All-India State Water Ministers’ Conference, organized by the Ministry of Jal Shakti, Government of India, commenced today in Udaipur, Rajastan. Inaugurated by the Union  Minister of Jal Shakti  Shri C R Patil in  the presence of  Chief Minister of Rajasthan shri Bhajan Lal Sharma.The conference witnessed the participation of Chief Ministers of Odisha and Tripura, Deputy Chief Ministers of Himachal Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, and Karnataka, along with 30 Ministers and over 300 delegates. This high-level dialogue builds on the Water Vision @ 2047, first formulated at the 2023 Bhopal Conference  and further reviewed at the Secretaries’ Conference in Mahabalipuram in 2024.

On the first day, deliberations revolved around strengthening water governance, enhancing storage infrastructure, improving irrigation systems, and increasing water-use efficiency. Discussions emphasized the need for Integrated Water Resources Management (IWRM) tailored to state-specific requirements, participatory governance at the grassroots level, and water budgeting to optimize demand and availability. The importance of leveraging data, technology, and innovation to improve efficiency and sustainability was also highlighted. Additionally, there was a strong push to scale up the ‘Jal Sanchay Jan Bhagidari’ initiative nationwide to promote community-driven water conservation efforts.

A key focus area was the development and maintenance of water storage infrastructure, not only through new projects but also by prioritizing Extension, Renovation, and Modernization (ERM) of existing systems. Discussions underscored the importance of accelerating river interlinking projects through consensus-building, alongside the repair, renovation, and restoration of smaller water bodies to enhance water availability. Delegates also stressed the need for automated reservoir operations for better storage management, as well as comprehensive interventions to promote water conservation at every level.

The conference reaffirmed its commitment to sustaining the Jal Jeevan Mission (JJM), with a particular emphasis on community-led operation and maintenance through Village Water & Sanitation Committees (VWSCs). Water quality testing remains a priority, ensuring safe drinking water reaches every household. Discussions also explored measures to achieve urban water security through the AMRUT Scheme and integrate greywater management under Swachh Bharat Mission 2.0. Special attention was given to vulnerable regions, ensuring that potable water reaches the most underserved communities.

As discussions continue on Day Two, the conference is set to finalize concrete action plans that will drive India’s long-term water security strategy and contribute to the vision of Viksit Bharat @ 2047.

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Dhanya Sanal K

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