Union Water Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat says that investment has been made in irrigation, river purification, drinking water, and groundwater recharge and highlights the need for greater private sector participation to boost investment
Union Minister of Jal Shakti, Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, highlighted the significant growth and modernisation in India's infrastructure over the past decade at a summit organised by the Indian Chamber of Commerce.
During the event, Shekhawat emphasised India's strong commitment to the water sector, revealing an investment of approximately $250 billion in irrigation, river purification, drinking water, and groundwater recharge.
He acknowledged the unprecedented progress in India's infrastructure, covering roadways, railways, waterways, airways, and energy, positioning India as a beacon of innovation and development. Shekhawat credited transformative initiatives, including the ambitious Jal Jeevan Mission launched by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in 2019.
Since the mission's inception, access to clean drinking water has expanded to millions of households nationwide, marking a paradigm shift in the water sector.
Shekhawat revealed a 3.5-fold increase in progress over the past four years compared to the preceding 72 years, with 74 percent of households now having access to drinking water through taps.
Highlighting India's global water conservation and management recognition, Shekhawat mentioned the UN Convention on Biodiversity conference COP15, acknowledging NamamiGange as one of the top 10 World Restoration flagships.
With investments exceeding $240 billion in the water sector and ambitious missions, Shekhawat expressed confidence in India achieving Sustainable Development Goal 6.1 well before 2030. He asserted that India's holistic approach and comprehensive strategies serve as inspiration for developing nations facing similar challenges.
Director General of the Indian Chamber of Commerce, Rajeev Singh, stressed the need for increased private sector participation in water and wastewater initiatives. Collaboration, unlocking funding opportunities, facilitating innovations, and improving service delivery were highlighted as essential measures to boost private investment.
Ankur Patni, ED of ION Exchange, emphasised the importance of collaboration and innovation in water management. He called for uniting across sectors to create a dynamic water innovation ecosystem, ensuring a sustainable future globally.