New Delhi, 11 March (H.S.):

President Droupadi Murmu declared water conservation a collective duty, urging citizens to view water not as a mere commodity but as an invaluable legacy for future generations.

Speaking at Jal Mahotsav 2026, she emphasized water's deep ties to India's culture, traditions, livelihoods, and community life. Rural women and children once trekked miles for drinking water—a quest linked to time, health, and dignity—now eased by Jal Jeevan Mission delivering clean water to households.

Murmu hailed self-help groups (SHGs) for water testing, operations, and maintenance, fostering empowerment and positive change. Handing water infrastructure to gram panchayats via 'Jal Arpan Diwas' will strengthen community stewardship.

Initiatives like 'Catch the Rain' and 'Jal Sanchay Jan Bhagidari' promote rainwater harvesting alongside grey-water management and groundwater efforts.

She called for multidimensional strategies, including Swachh Bharat Mission coordination, and praised youth awareness for bolstering water security. Jal Mahotsav, running March 8-22 under the Jal Shakti Ministry, aims to enhance public participation in rural drinking water services.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar