“Water Conservation Social Commitment”: PM Modi at ‘Jal Sanchay Jan Bhagidari’ Launch

GG News Bureau
New Delhi, 6th Sept. Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday launched the ‘Jal Sanchay Jan Bhagidari’ initiative via video conferencing, emphasizing the importance of water conservation and the role of public participation in securing the nation’s water future. The initiative, launched in Gujarat, aims to build approximately 24,800 rainwater harvesting structures to enhance water sustainability.

In his address, PM Modi highlighted the unique approach India has taken towards water and nature conservation through the active involvement of citizens. He noted that water conservation is not merely a policy but a cultural and social responsibility ingrained in India’s traditions. “Water conservation is not just a matter of policies but also social commitment,” Modi stated, urging people to adopt the mantra of “Reduce, Reuse, Recharge, and Recycle” to secure the nation’s future.

The Prime Minister underscored India’s ancient respect for water, noting that rivers and water bodies are considered sacred in Indian culture. “Indians belong to a culture that considers water as a form of God, rivers as Goddesses, and Sarovars (lakes) as abodes of the Gods,” he said, emphasizing the deep-rooted cultural connection with water and nature conservation.

Modi also reflected on the devastating impact of monsoon rains across the country this year and praised the resilience of the people of Gujarat in facing the challenges. He reminisced about his time as Gujarat’s Chief Minister, when he had witnessed firsthand the struggles of water scarcity in the state and implemented long-term solutions such as the completion of the Sardar Sarovar Dam and the Sauni Yojana, which redirected water to arid regions.

Highlighting the successes of water-related programs, Modi noted that the Jal Jeevan Mission has provided piped drinking water to over 15 crore households, a significant increase from just 3 crore homes earlier. He also praised the contributions of women-led Paani Samitis (water committees) in managing water resources across the country.

The Prime Minister called for an all-encompassing effort to conserve water, involving governments, industries, and citizens alike. He praised industries for adopting water recycling and sustainability initiatives and noted that the collaborative efforts between government and private entities would be key to ensuring water security in the future.

Concluding his speech, PM Modi expressed optimism that India would set a global example in water conservation, stating, “Together, we will make India a beacon of water conservation for all of humanity.” He extended his best wishes to the Ministry of Jal Shakti, the Gujarat government, and all stakeholders involved in the ‘Jal Sanchay Jan Bhagidari’ initiative.

The event was attended virtually by Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel and Union Minister of Jal Shakti C.R. Patil, among others.

Background
The ‘Jal Sanchay Jan Bhagidari’ initiative builds on Gujarat’s successful Jal Sanchay program and aims to mobilize citizens, industries, and local governments to conserve water. With the construction of nearly 24,800 rainwater harvesting structures, the program focuses on long-term water sustainability through community participation.