Union Minister of Jal Shakti, Shri C R Patil inaugurated the 2nd State Water Ministers’ Conference on Water Security in the presence of Chief Minister of Rajastan, Shri Bhajan Lal Sharma with a traditional Jal Kalash Ceremony. In the inaugural speech Union Minister Shri C R Patil emphasized India’s vision for the Viksit Bharat @ 2047, with water security being a critical pillar in achieving this goal and under the leadership of Prime minister Shri Narendra Modi, India is working towards ensuring water security by 2047 he added.

Union Minister stated that the Swachh Bharat Mission (SBM) has been a major milestone, with 12 crore toilets constructed, transforming habits of 60 crore people, saving 3 lakh lives through improved sanitation and ₹8 lakh crore saved in healthcare costs.

Shri C R Patil highlighted the community-driven water conservation effort, Jal Sanchay Jan Bhagidari, which has led to the development of 1 million artificial rainwater harvesting structures across India. Furthermore, 6 lakh+ water conservation works have been completed under community participation, adopting the "Khet ka paani khet me" approach. Through this community driven effort 60000, 1 lakh, and 2.29 lakh artificial recharge structures have been created in Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh and Chhattisgarh respectively. Shri Patil also spoke about the Jal Shakti Abhiyan – Catch the Rain initiative, which has completed more than 1.67 crore water conservation works through convergence, focusing on reviving traditional water bodies and efficient water use.

Union minister also added that river linking projects, such as the Ken-Betwa Link (MP-UP) and the Modified Parbati-Kalisindh-Chambal ERCP (MP-Rajasthan), are transforming India's water landscape. The Ken-Betwa Link project will provide irrigation to 10.62 lakh hectares and drinking water to 62 lakh people, while the Modified Parbati-Kalisindh-Chambal ERCP will irrigate 10 lakh hectares and provide drinking water to 50 lakh people. Union minister also mentioned shri Atal Bihari Vajpayee's vision for water security, saying that substantial progress has been made in river linking projects.

In conclusion, Shri C R Patil emphasized that "Jal hai to kal hai" – water security ensures a strong future. Wealth accumulation is important, but water conservation is critical. With time on our side and PM Modi's leadership, India is on the right path to securing its water future, he added.

The chief guests and dignitaries attending the Second All India Conference of State Water Ministers were presented with ‘Piku,’ the mascot of the National Water Mission (NWM), as a commemorative memento. ‘Piku’ represents the peacock, India’s national bird, symbolizing water conservation and environmental balance. This unique memento was beautifully crafted by tribal women artists from Udaipur and surrounding regions, showcasing their traditional craftsmanship and cultural heritage. The initiative not only promotes local artisans but also strengthens public participation in water conservation. Moreover, it aligns with the theme of “Jal Shakti Abhiyan: Nari Shakti Se Jal Shakti,” which emphasizes the vital role of women in water conservation efforts.

The Chief Ministers of Odisha and Tripura, and the deputy chief ministers of Himachal Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, and Karnataka graced the inaugural function of the conference with their presence.

The All-India State Water Ministers’ Conference is being held in Udaipur during 18-19 February 2024 to further strengthen efforts toward achieving water security and Viksit Bharat by 2047. This prestigious conference graced by 30 Ministers and over 300 delegates from Central and State Governments during these two days. The conference will feature approximately 35 presentations across six themes, 5 e-launches, and 15 video showcases highlighting key interventions.

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Dhanya Sanal K