New Delhi, March 11 (NationPress) President Droupadi Murmu participated in the 'Jal Mahotsav 2026' on Wednesday, where she underscored the critical role of water conservation and the necessity of community involvement in achieving sustainable water management throughout the nation.

In her speech, the President articulated that in India, water transcends being just a fundamental requirement; it is intricately linked to the country's culture, traditions, livelihoods, and social fabric. She highlighted that for many years, particularly in rural areas, villagers, especially women and children, faced the arduous task of traveling long distances to procure drinking water.

"Accessing clean water is not merely about convenience; it impacts time, health, and dignity," she remarked. To tackle these issues, the Central government initiated the Jal Jeevan Mission, aimed at delivering safe and sufficient drinking water to rural homes via functional tap connections.

The President noted that this mission has significantly enhanced access to safe drinking water in villages.

"Individuals who previously struggled to secure drinking water now enjoy clean and safe water within their residences," she stated.

Stressing the importance of shared responsibility, President Murmu asserted that the conservation of natural resources is more effective when both the government and community members take ownership. She emphasized that community participation is vital for the management and preservation of water resources.

She expressed optimism that initiatives like ‘Jal Arpan Diwas’, which involves the formal transfer of water supply infrastructure to gram panchayats, will enhance community ownership and promote improved management of water resources at the local level.

The President recognized the contribution of Self-Help Groups (SHGs) in advancing water-related initiatives. She mentioned that SHGs are actively engaged in water testing, operation, and maintenance activities across various regions.

"Numerous instances demonstrate how the dedication and commitment of Self-Help Groups have positively transformed the lives of women and society. Empowering women through such groups is crucial in tackling water security challenges," she remarked.

Murmu further accentuated that a multifaceted and coordinated approach is essential to bolster water security. She pointed out that greywater management is being promoted in rural sectors in conjunction with the Clean India Mission. Efforts are also underway to ensure the sustainability of water resources through groundwater recharge and conservation strategies in collaboration with the Central Groundwater Board and other organizations.

She also brought attention to national campaigns like "Catch the Rain" and "Jal Sanchay Jan Bhagidari", which advocate for rainwater harvesting and community involvement in water conservation.

"These collaborative initiatives will be pivotal in securing water availability for the nation," she asserted.

The President emphasized that water conservation is a collective duty and urged citizens to regard water not just as a commodity but as a precious resource for future generations.

"To ensure our future, incorporating water conservation into our daily routines is essential. Educating the younger generation about water management and conservation is vital for the nation’s water security in the coming years," she concluded.

Murmu also expressed her belief that ‘Jal Mahotsav’ would develop into a widespread movement for water conservation across India.

The Ministry of Jal Shakti is hosting Jal Mahotsav 2026 as a nationwide campaign from March 8 to March 22, aimed at enhancing public participation and community ownership in rural drinking water services under the Jal Jeevan Mission.