MENA Newswire News Desk: Indian President Droupadi Murmu has urged citizens across India to unite in a mass water conservation movement, emphasizing the theme “Catch the Rain: Where it Falls, When it Falls.” The President’s call comes as she inaugurated “India Water Week,” which began today, September 17, 2024, in New Delhi. During the event, Murmu stressed the significance of reducing water scarcity and its impact on humanity. “The goal of decreasing the number of people suffering from water scarcity is not only crucial for India but for the world at large,” she said.
Murmu highlighted the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, which call for stronger local community participation in water and sanitation management. She advocated turning the Indian government’s rainwater conservation initiative into a mass movement to ensure long-term water sustainability. “The objective is to promote rainwater harvesting, water conservation, and forest development,” Murmu said. “Children, too, can be pivotal in water management by promoting responsible water use, and all citizens must act as ‘water warriors.’”
India, home to 17% of the world’s population, holds only 4% of its freshwater resources. The President warned that around 80% of the country’s water is consumed by agriculture. “Our water resources are finite. Providing water to all can only be achieved through efficient management of this vital resource,” she added. Running from September 17 to 20, India Water Week features an international conference led by the Ministry of Jal Shakti. This year’s theme is “Partnerships and Cooperation for Inclusive Water Development and Management,” which aims to bring together global experts on water conservation. Murmu’s remarks are expected to resonate widely, particularly in regions of India facing critical water shortages, where the call for action has become more urgent than ever.