President Smt. Droupadi Murmu today presented the 6th National Water Awards and the Jal Sanchay–Jan Bhagidari Awards at a ceremony held at Vigyan Bhawan, New Delhi, where Raipur District and Raipur Municipal Corporation received top honours for their outstanding performance in the field of water conservation. Raipur Municipal Corporation secured first position nationwide, Raipur District achieved third position in the Eastern Zone, and the State of Chhattisgarh earned second position at the national level.

Addressing the ceremony, the President said that the journey of human civilization has always evolved around rivers and water bodies. In Indian tradition, rivers, lakes and water sources are revered, and the first word of our national song Vande Mataram, “Sujalam”, symbolises the central importance of water in the life of our nation. She stated that efficient use of water is not only a national but a global necessity—especially for a populous country like India where per capita water availability is limited. She emphasised that climate change is affecting the water cycle, making it essential for governments and citizens to work together to ensure water availability and water security.

The President expressed satisfaction that more than 3.5 million groundwater recharge structures have been created under the Jal Sanchay–Jan Bhagidari initiative launched last year. She praised industries that have adopted circular water economy systems, promoted water treatment and recycling, and achieved the goal of zero liquid discharge.

Raipur’s Historic Achievement
Under the guidance of Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai, Raipur District transformed water conservation into a people’s movement. The award was received by Collector Dr. Gaurav Singh and Municipal Commissioner Shri Vishwadeep. Raipur Municipal Corporation completed 33,082, Raipur District completed 36,282, and Chhattisgarh State completed 4,05,563 water conservation works. These include rainwater harvesting structures, recharge pits, Amrit Sarovars, top dams, percolation tanks, and the introduction of a digital groundwater tracking system under smart water management. Additionally, with four Sewage Treatment Plants, Raipur developed a capacity of 206 MLD, and ensured the supply of 125.849 MLD treated water to nine industrial units.

The President urged that respect for water and its optimal use must become an integral part of every citizen’s lifestyle. She called for spreading water awareness across the country, stating that water harvesting and conservation are possible only through people’s collective participation.

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RDJ/PJ

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