The Second All-India State Water Ministers’ Conference, organised by the Ministry of Jal Shakti, Government of India, commenced today in Udaipur, Rajasthan. Union Minister of Jal Shakti, Shri C R Patil, inaugurated the event in the presence of Rajasthan Chief Minister Shri Bhajan Lal Sharma. The conference saw participation from the Chief Ministers of Odisha and Tripura, Deputy Chief Ministers of Himachal Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, and Karnataka, along with 30 ministers and over 300 delegates. This high-level dialogue builds on Water Vision @ 2047, first formulated at the 2023 Bhopal Conference and further reviewed at the Secretaries’ Conference in Mahabalipuram in 2024. 

On the first day, discussions centred on strengthening water governance, enhancing storage infrastructure, improving irrigation systems, and increasing water-use efficiency. Emphasis was placed on Integrated Water Resources Management (IWRM) tailored to state-specific needs, participatory governance at the grassroots level, and water budgeting to optimise supply and demand. Delegates highlighted the role of data, technology, and innovation in boosting efficiency and sustainability. A major focus was on scaling up the Jal Sanchay Jan Bhagidari initiative nationwide to encourage community-led water conservation. 

A key priority was the development and maintenance of water storage infrastructure, not just through new projects but also by advancing the Extension, Renovation, and Modernisation (ERM) of existing systems. The conference underscored the importance of accelerating river interlinking projects through consensus-building while promoting the restoration of smaller water bodies to enhance availability. Delegates also stressed the need for automated reservoir operations for improved storage management and comprehensive interventions to strengthen water conservation. 

Reaffirming its commitment to the Jal Jeevan Mission (JJM), the conference emphasised community-led operation and maintenance through Village Water & Sanitation Committees (VWSCs). Ensuring safe drinking water through rigorous quality testing remains a priority. Discussions also explored urban water security under the AMRUT Scheme and the integration of greywater management within Swachh Bharat Mission 2.0. Special attention was given to vulnerable regions, ensuring access to potable water for the most underserved communities.