New Delhi, 09 June (H.S.): Vice President C. P. Radhakrishnan on Tuesday said that efforts to interlink rivers and improve groundwater levels must be accelerated to ensure long-term water security in the country. He observed that the primary challenge in implementing river-linking projects is not the availability of funds, but rather public mindset and political considerations.

During a meeting with officials of the Ministry of Jal Shakti at the Vice President’s House, Radhakrishnan stressed the need for a visionary and collaborative approach to water management in the national interest. Officials briefed him on various schemes and projects being implemented by the Department of Water Resources, River Development and Ganga Rejuvenation.

The Vice President praised the ‘Jal Sanchay Jan Bhagidari’ campaign, stating that it has emerged as an effective initiative for water conservation and groundwater recharge through the participation of government agencies, communities, industries and various organisations.

He was informed that under the second phase of the campaign, more than 15.5 million water conservation and groundwater recharge structures have been created or documented, significantly exceeding the prescribed target.

During the meeting, the Vice President was also briefed on the progress of major river-linking projects, including the Ken-Betwa Link Project, the Parvati-Kalisindh-Chambal Link Project and the Godavari-Kaveri Link Project. He said that interlinking rivers could play a crucial role in reducing water scarcity, mitigating drought conditions, expanding irrigation coverage and promoting balanced regional development.

Radhakrishnan suggested that documentaries and permanent archival records should be created for major national water projects such as the Ken-Betwa Link Project. According to him, such documentation would help future generations understand and take pride in these historic nation-building initiatives.

The Vice President recalled that he had previously undertaken a padyatra in support of the river-linking movement. Reiterating his support, he stated that raising financial resources is not the principal obstacle to such projects; rather, a change in mindset and stronger political will are far more critical.

During the meeting, Union Minister for Jal Shakti C. R. Patil and Minister of State Raj Bhushan Choudhary also invited the Vice President to participate in the India International Water Week 2026, scheduled to be held in September 2026.

---------------

Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar