India is strengthening its approach to water security, with the Centre calling for closer coordination between states, local bodies and the Union government, alongside greater use of technology, data and conservation measures to manage the country’s growing water requirements.
PM Modi chaired the concluding session of the two-day National Departmental Summit on Water, organised by the Ministry of Jal Shakti. Ministers and senior officials from states and Union Territories participated in discussions covering water conservation, infrastructure, governance and long-term resource management.
The government’s emerging strategy places greater emphasis on managing existing water resources efficiently rather than focusing only on creating new infrastructure. With urbanisation, population growth and rising demand putting increasing pressure on available supplies, Modi called for greater awareness and involvement of Urban Local Bodies in water planning.
He suggested organising similar deliberative sessions for local bodies and encouraging wider adoption of water-saving technologies. Exhibitions and workshops showcasing successful international practices could also help Indian manufacturers and other stakeholders develop and scale technologies for improving water-use efficiency.
Technology and data are expected to play an increasingly important role. Modi called for water-related data to be systematically organised and integrated to improve analysis and decision-making. He also highlighted the potential use of artificial intelligence and standardised data formats for collecting, processing and analysing information related to water resources.
The government is looking at anticipatory measures to address water scarcity, including increased use of treated wastewater for agriculture and industry. Such measures could help reduce pressure on freshwater sources, particularly in regions facing recurring shortages.
Public participation remains another major element of the strategy. Modi called for stronger awareness campaigns around water conservation and suggested wider promotion of “Jal Utsav” to encourage community involvement.
He also proposed making de-silting a regular activity supported by clear criteria and standard operating procedures. Dam safety received particular attention, with a call for rigorous preparedness ahead of every monsoon and strict compliance with prescribed safety measures. Awareness about dam safety could also be introduced among school students through educational curricula.
Union Minister for Jal Shakti C. R. Patil identified four key outcomes from the summit: faster completion of water infrastructure projects, turning conservation into a sustained public movement, ensuring the long-term sustainability of drinking-water sources, and improving operation and maintenance of rural drinking-water schemes.
The Centre is also encouraging greater exchange of knowledge between states. Structured inter-state visits involving officials, public representatives and farmers have been proposed to help successful water-management practices move from one region to another.
Universities and higher education institutions are expected to contribute through research, training and capacity-building in water management.
The summit signals a broader shift in India’s water strategy. Infrastructure creation remains important, but the emphasis is increasingly moving towards maintaining existing systems, improving data-driven decision-making, conserving available resources and strengthening cooperation between governments and communities to build long-term water security.