President of India Presents Sixth National Water Awards

On November 18, 2025, the President of India, Smt. Droupadi Murmu, presented the Sixth National Water Awards and Jal Sanchay-Jan Bhagidari Awards at a special ceremony in New Delhi. The event recognized outstanding efforts in water conservation, efficient water use, and community-driven initiatives that address India’s growing water challenges.

India’s Cultural Connection with Water

In her address, President Murmu reflected on India’s deep-rooted cultural reverence for water. She highlighted how water sources like rivers and lakes are not only vital for survival but are also considered sacred. Referencing Bankim Chandra Chatterjee’s national song, where the first word is “Sujalam” (abundantly watered), she emphasized how water has always held a place of high priority in Indian society.

Challenges of Water Scarcity and Climate Change

The President cautioned that India’s water resources are under pressure due to its large population and limited availability. She stressed that per capita water availability is a pressing challenge, especially with climate change disrupting natural water cycles. In this context, she called for coordinated action from the government and citizens to ensure sustainable water use and security for future generations.

Key Highlights and Achievements

One of the major milestones highlighted during the ceremony was the construction of over 35 lakh groundwater recharge structures under the Jal Sanchay-Jan Bhagidari (JSJB) initiative, which was launched just a year ago. These structures are a crucial part of artificial groundwater recharge, aimed at reversing groundwater depletion through community participation.

Additionally, the President praised efforts by industries that have implemented circular water economy systems. Many have successfully adopted water recirculation and even achieved zero liquid discharge, showing how technology and commitment can lead to effective water resource management.

Collective Responsibility Across All Levels

President Murmu underlined that water conservation must be a shared responsibility, involving,

• Central and state governments
• District and municipal authorities
• Village panchayats
• Educational institutions and NGOs
• Individual citizens and farmers

She encouraged farmers and entrepreneurs to use innovative, water-efficient methods in agriculture and industry. Equally, she emphasized the role of everyday citizens who, through conscious use of water, can contribute to the nation’s water security.

Respecting Water as a Precious Resource

A key part of the President’s message was about the need to respect water as a valuable and limited asset. She lauded the tribal communities’ respectful approach towards natural resources and urged all Indians to adopt similar attitudes. Making efficient water use an integral part of daily life, she said, is critical to long-term sustainability.

Spreading water awareness across the nation’s public consciousness, she noted, is essential. True change will come not only through policies but through the “power of the people” in harvesting, conserving, and using water responsibly.

About the Awards

The National Water Awards are aimed at,

• Raising awareness about the importance of water
• Recognizing best practices in conservation and sustainable use
• Motivating individuals and institutions to innovate and act

The Jal Sanchay-Jan Bhagidari Awards focus on,

• Community-led models for water recharge
• Encouraging convergence of resources
• Showcasing scalable and replicable success stories

List of Winners – 6th National Water Awards 2024

1. Best State

2. Best District

3. Best Urban Local Body (ULB)

4. Best Institution (Other than School/College)

Inside Campus Catgory

Outside Campus Category

5. Best Water User Association (WUA)

6. Best Civil Society

7. Best Village Panchayat

9. Best Industry

10. Best Individual for Excellence in Water Sector

Significance of the Awards

Static Facts

• Event Date: 18 November 2025
• Venue: New Delhi
• Presented by: President Droupadi Murmu
• Award Editions: Sixth National Water Awards
• Supporting Program: Jal Sanchay-Jan Bhagidari (JSJB)
• Key Achievement: Over 35 lakh groundwater recharge structures built
• Focus Areas: Efficient water use, community participation, climate resilience