President Graces National Event of Jal Mahotsav 2026
The Department of Drinking Water & Sanitation (DDWS), Ministry of Jal Shakti, organised the National Event of Jal Mahotsav 2026 today at Vigyan Bhawan, New Delhi, as part of the nationwide campaign being observed from 8–22 March 2026 to strengthen community participation and sustainability in rural drinking water service delivery under Jal Jeevan Mission (JJM).
The national event was graced by the Hon’ble President of India Smt. Draupadi Murmu, who led the Jal Kalash ceremony and felicitated selected Community Members from across States/UTs for their exemplary contribution to rural drinking water governance.
Addressing the gathering, hon’ble President highlighted that water is not merely a basic service but a fundamental pillar of health, dignity and sustainable development.
She underlined water’s centrality to India’s cultural and developmental fabric and acknowledged the women-led, community-owned model advancing safe, reliable rural drinking water services under JJM. For decades, particularly women and children bore the burden of fetching water from distant sources, often affecting their health, education and overall well-being.
During the ceremony, the President honoured community members, whose work exemplifies excellence in managing and sustaining rural drinking water systems.
These recognitions highlighted the critical role played by local leadership, community participation and accountability in ensuring the long-term sustainability of rural drinking water services.
Addressing the gathering, Union Minister of Jal Shakti, C.R. Paatil said that Jal Jeevan Mission has ushered in a historic transformation in rural India by ensuring access to safe and adequate drinking water through functional household tap connections.
Secretary, DDWS,i Ashok K.K. Meena welcomed the Hon’ble President, Ministers, dignitaries, and community representatives, and highlighted the significance of Jal Mahotsav 2026 being celebrated nationwide from 8th to 22nd March. During the event a thematic film on Water–Health–Nutrition was showcased.(updated on 11th March 2026)
