New Delhi, 22 April (H.S.): India's Ministry of Jal Shakti announced the 9th India International Water Week (IIWW) for September 22–26, 2026, at Bharat Mandapam, spotlighting climate-sensitive water management to tackle floods, erratic monsoons, and scarcity.

Union Minister CR Patil formally launched the event Wednesday at Shram Shakti Bhawan, unveiling a concurrent International WASH Conference (Sep 22–24) drawing experts, researchers, states, ministries, and NGOs.

Patil stressed dwindling availability demands reduced consumption, amplified storage, and conservation at scale, warning population-industrial pressures will intensify strains. Initiatives like Yamuna rejuvenation, Amrit Sarovars, and Jal Jeevan Mission extension to 2028 aim for tap water in every rural home.

Water Resources Secretary VL Kantha Rao highlighted rebranding to IIWW with expanded global participation—technical sessions, exhibitions, field visits covering governance, optimization, technology, community roles, climate risks, and financing.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar