Workshop on R&D in Water Charts Future Roadmap held

The National Workshop on R&D in Water brought together over 500 stakeholders from government, academia, research institutions, industry, MSMEs and startups to deliberate on strengthening India’s water research and innovation ecosystem for achieving water security and climate resilience. The workshop was attended by C.R. Patil, Union Minister of Jal Shakti; Dr. Jitendra Singh, Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Science & Technology; Raj Bhushan Choudhary, Minister of State, Ministry of Jal Shakti; Dr. V. Narayanan, Secretary, Department of Space and Chairman, ISRO, CEO ANRF; Senior Secretaries, scientists, experts and industries from across the country.

Addressing the gathering, Shri Patil emphasized that “Jal is the hallmark of our civilization” and development. He stressed that addressing emerging water challenges requires a three-pronged approach of research, technological innovation and Jan Bhagidari

Dr. Jitendra Singh underscored the importance of a Whole-of-Government and Whole-of-Nation approach involving academia, industry, MSMEs and startups for realizing the vision of Viksit Bharat 2047.

Raj Bhushan Choudhary emphasized that water is a foundational resource that underpins agriculture, livelihoods, public health, economic growth and environmental sustainability.

V. L. Kantha Rao, Secretary, Department of Water Resources, River Development & Ganga Rejuvenation, emphasized that water is a strategic resource requiring sustained investments in research and innovation

Dr. V. Narayanan, Secretary, Department of Space and Chairman, ISRO, highlighted the transformative role of space technology, remote sensing and geospatial applications in water resources management.

Ashok Meena, Secretary, Department of Drinking Water & Sanitation, emphasized the need to translate research and technological advancements into practical, field-level solutions for strengthening climate resilience, drinking water security and source sustainability under the Jal Jeevan Mission.

Dr. Shivkumar Kalyanaraman, CEO, ANRF, highlighted the significance of MAHA on Water (Mission for Advancement in High-Impact Areas for Water) as a transformative initiative to strengthen India’s water research and innovation ecosystem. (updated on 1st june 2026)