NITI Aayog has launched the 15-day ‘Jal Utsav’ today to create awareness and sensitivity towards water management, conservation and sustainability.

The campaign follows the vision of Prime Minister Narendra Modi who mooted the idea of ‘Jal Utsav’ on the lines of ‘Nadi Utsav’ during the 3rd Chief Secretaries Conference held in December last year.

NITI Aayog said, Jal Utsav is being implemented in 20 Aspirational Districts and Blocks from today to 24th November. This is in partnership with National Jal Jeevan Mission, Department of Drinking Water and Sanitation, Ministry of Jal Shakti.

The Festival being launched across 20 states, envisages community participation in preservation and protection of water resources. It seeks to instill a sense of responsibility towards efficient water use among households and water management among utilities and agencies. School students are being enrolled in this initiative in water management activities, empowering them to act as catalysts for change within their families and communities.

The fortnight-long festival is being launched with ‘Jal Bandhan’ – the symbolic tying of sacred thread on water assets by eminent personalities and local leaders. They would also launch “Fact Sheet on Jal Sampada” of their blocks and districts.