Starting November 6, 2024, NITI Aayog, in collaboration with the National Jal Jeevan Mission, Department of Drinking Water and Sanitation, and the Ministry of Jal Shakti, is set to launch a 15-day water festival, ‘Jal Utsav.’ This initiative, spanning 20 Aspirational Districts across 20 states, aims to raise awareness around water conservation, sustainable management, and efficient usage, fostering community involvement to secure the nation’s water resources.
The concept of Jal Utsav aligns with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision, inspired by the success of ‘Nadi Utsav’ (River Festival) discussed in December 2023 at the 3rd Chief Secretaries Conference. Through various community-driven activities, the festival seeks to empower individuals, particularly students, to become active agents of change within their families and communities, reinforcing the need for water stewardship in everyday life.
The festival will kick off with the symbolic “Jal Bandhan,” where eminent personalities and local leaders will ceremoniously tie a sacred thread on water assets to signify their commitment to water preservation. Leaders will also introduce a “Fact Sheet on Jal Sampada” specific to their districts, outlining the status of local water assets. Participants will take a pledge, the ‘Jal Utsav Oath,’ committing to sustainable water practices through the 5Rs: Respect, Reduce, Reuse, Recycle, and Recharge.
Throughout the fortnight, a series of engaging activities are planned, including the cleaning of water assets, the celebration of "Jal Sanchay Diwas" for water conservation, and the introduction of water management lessons in schools. Teachers will use stories, experiments, and field trips to educate students on water quality testing and sustainable practices. Students will also have the opportunity to visit water supply and treatment plants, further enhancing their understanding of water resource management.
Additional events include a "Jal Utsav Run," tree-planting drives under the "Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam" initiative, and skills development programs for Nal Jal Mitra under the Department of Drinking Water and Sanitation. Self-help groups and ASHA workers will also take part, focusing on capacity-building for water conservation.
Jal Utsav aims to promote a collective appreciation of water’s role in sustaining life, emphasizing the importance of sustainable practices to secure water resources for future generations.
