The All India Water Secretaries' Conference reviewed key water management reforms, rainwater harvesting initiatives, dam safety measures and sustainable resource planning across India.
Union Minister C. R. Patil inaugurated the All-India Water Secretaries' Conference in New Delhi, which was chaired by the Union Minister of Jal Shakti and attended by Minister of State Raj Bhushan Choudhary. Around 200 senior officials from the Centre, states and Union Territories participated in the discussions.
The conference addressed eight priority agenda items, such as the Modernisation of Command Area Development and Water Management (M-CADWM) Scheme, the #CatchTheRain Campaign, revised project appraisal guidelines for irrigation and flood management projects, rule curves of dam reservoirs, the State Water Reforms Framework (SWRF), dam safety evaluations, irrigation censuses and Model State Water Awards.
During the conference, Patil said that water is the bedrock of India's economic growth, food security, environmental sustainability and citizens' well-being. He urged the scientific, economical, and sustainable utilisation of water resources and addressed challenges of climate change, depletion of groundwater and fast urbanisation.
Patil appealed to all the States to transform the ‘Catch the Rain 2026’ campaign into a true mass movement by expediting rainwater harvesting, groundwater recharge, restoration of traditional water bodies, desilting of ponds and plantation drives. He further emphasised the timely completion of M-CAD Scheme projects and the necessity of enhancing irrigation efficiency and farmers' income. He added that the Ministry continues to refine the project appraisal process, with simplified and time-bound guidelines, to ensure quicker approvals.
The Minister noted that all 36 States and UTs have appointed Nodal Officers under the State Water Reforms Framework that was initiated in May 2026. He further reiterated that the Ministry would complete a comprehensive Dam Safety Evaluation for all the specified dams within 12 months before December 2026.
At the conference, three important documents were released: an action plan (city level) for reuse of treated water in Varanasi, an O&M Manual for Artificial Recharge and Groundwater Conservation Structures, and a Schedule of Rates for Drilling and Allied Works.
The conference ended with a determination to put into action “Jal Surakshit, Bharat Surakshit” in a time-bound manner.
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