New Delhi, Oct 6 (PTI) Water security requires coordinated efforts by the Centre, states, local bodies, communities and industry, Union Minister of State for Jal Shakti Raj Bhushan Choudhary said on Tuesday, emphasising the need for technology, innovation and public participation to build a water-secure India.
Addressing the 12th CII Water Innovation Summit here, Choudhary said Water Vision 2047, a strategic initiative aligned with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of Viksit Bharat by 2047, seeks to ensure resilient, inclusive and universal water security.
“Since water is a state subject, collaboration between the Centre, states, local bodies, communities and industry is essential,” he said.
Choudhary said India’s approach to water management is guided by five pillars — political will, public financing, partnership, public participation and persuasion for sustainability.
He said India is moving towards river-basin-based planning, supported by digital hydrological monitoring, with the objective of ensuring both “aviral dhara” and “nirmal dhara” — continuous and clean river flows.
A major focus of Water Vision 2047 is creation of a circular water economy, with treated wastewater being promoted for industrial use, thermal power plants and urban landscaping, he said.
Highlighting the need for greater efficiency in irrigation, Choudhary said the modernisation of Command Area Development and Water Management programme represents a shift towards more efficient water delivery.
The initiative uses underground pipe networks to deliver water directly to farm fields, while digital technologies such as IoT sensors and SCADA systems can help ensure equitable, assured and efficient water supply, he said.
The minister also stressed the importance of micro-irrigation in helping farmers achieve “more crop per drop” and diversify into high-value crops.
Choudhary said Jan Bhagidari is at the heart of India’s water strategy, with initiatives such as Atal Bhujal Yojana, Jal Shakti Abhiyan, Mission Amrit Sarovar and Jal Sanchay Jan Bhagidari seeking to strengthen community participation in water management.
“India’s water future cannot be secured by government action alone. It requires people’s participation, a people’s movement,” he said.
The minister said Indian industry also has an important role in water conservation through investment in water-efficient technologies, wastewater recycling, digital monitoring and sustainable practices.
“Many are moving beyond compliance, extending their efforts into surrounding watersheds, thereby strengthening local water security and community resilience,” he said.
He said strong governance, community participation, technological innovation and collective partnership will be essential for India to build a water-secure future. PTI ADI NB
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