Prime Minister Narendra Modi has called water security one of the most pressing challenges of the 21st century, urging global cooperation and innovative solutions to address the growing crisis. Speaking at an international water conference, PM Modi emphasized the critical need to prioritize sustainable water management for the well-being of future generations.
A Growing Crisis
PM Modi highlighted alarming statistics on water scarcity, pointing out that nearly 2 billion people globally face water shortages, with the situation worsening due to climate change, population growth, and industrial demands. “Water scarcity is not just an environmental issue; it is a humanitarian, economic, and security issue,” he said.
India, home to 18% of the world’s population but only 4% of its water resources, is among the countries most affected by water stress. PM Modi stressed that urgent action is needed to ensure equitable access to clean water, particularly for rural communities and vulnerable populations.
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India’s Commitment to Water Conservation
The Prime Minister outlined India’s proactive measures to tackle water challenges, including the ambitious Jal Jeevan Mission, which aims to provide piped water to every rural household by 2024. “This mission is transforming lives in villages, empowering women, and ensuring better health outcomes,” he noted.
PM Modi also highlighted the Namami Gange Program, an initiative focused on rejuvenating the Ganga River, as a model for sustainable river basin management. The program integrates technology, community participation, and government funding to clean and protect one of India’s most vital water resources.
Call for Global Cooperation
Water scarcity is a global issue that transcends borders, PM Modi said, calling for international collaboration to share best practices, technologies, and innovations. “The challenges of water security require collective global action. We must come together to develop a water-secure future for all,” he stated.
He also urged developed nations to support developing countries in building water infrastructure and adopting sustainable practices. “We must recognize that water security is key to achieving the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs),” he added.
Emphasizing Innovation
PM Modi encouraged leveraging modern technologies such as artificial intelligence, data analytics, and IoT-based solutions to monitor and manage water resources effectively. He also emphasized the importance of traditional water conservation methods and community-driven approaches to address the crisis.
A Shared Responsibility
The Prime Minister concluded by urging citizens to adopt water-saving practices in their daily lives. “Water is life, and conserving it is our shared responsibility. Every drop saved today is an investment in our collective future,” he said.
As the world grapples with the escalating water crisis, PM Modi’s address serves as a clarion call for action. Ensuring water security, he asserted, is not just a challenge but an opportunity to build a sustainable, equitable, and resilient future for all.
