PM Modi calls for greater adoption of water-saving technologies

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday called for the use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) to strengthen water data governance and improve the collection, analysis and utilisation of water-sector data, as he chaired the valedictory session of the two-day National Departmental Summit on Water organised by the Ministry of Jal Shakti. Emphasising the need for robust and integrated water data management, the Prime Minister suggested bringing water-sector data together and systematically managing, analysing and utilising it. He recommended using AI for data collection and analysis through a uniform format to support more effective water management and governance, stated a press release from the Prime Minister’s Office (PMO).
The Summit was the first in a series of Departmental Summits envisioned by PM Modi to strengthen the spirit of Team India, deepen cooperative federalism and foster collective ownership of national priorities through closer collaboration between the Centre and the States. It brought together Ministers and senior officials from States and Union Territories for focused deliberations on various dimensions of India’s water security. Appreciating the intensive two-day deliberations, the Prime Minister emphasised that the actionable and time-bound action points emerging from the Summit should be pursued through a continuous process of review and learning. He stressed that the Summit should not remain a one-time exercise and called for regular review and follow-up.
PM Modi has called for sensitising Urban Local Bodies to the challenges arising from urbanisation, including population growth and future water requirements, and suggested organising similar Chintan Shivirs for Urban Local Bodies.  Emphasising Jan Bhagidari, the Prime Minister suggested promoting “Jal Utsav” to create greater public awareness. He called for making de-silting a regular programme, supported by clear criteria and Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs).