Maharashtra Tops 6th National Water Awards 2024

• Maharashtra has been declared the best-performing state in water conservation and management at the 6th National Water Awards 2024, organised by the Union Ministry of Jal Shakti. The announcement recognises Maharashtra’s exemplary work in promoting sustainable water resource management, efficient irrigation, and community-driven watershed projects. The awards ceremony will be held in New Delhi on 18 November 2025 , where President Droupadi Murmu will present the honours to the winners.

Recognising State Excellence in Water Conservation

• Maharashtra ranked first in the ‘Best State’ category, followed by Gujarat (2nd) and Haryana (3rd) . The evaluation considered multiple parameters including innovative water conservation projects, rejuvenation of traditional water bodies, adoption of micro-irrigation systems, and public participation in water resource governance. Maharashtra’s integrated watershed management model and promotion of drip and sprinkler irrigation systems played a major role in securing its top position.

Categories and Participation

• The National Water Awards feature multiple categories — including Best District, Best Village Panchayat, Best Urban Local Body, Best Industry, Best Institution, and Best Individual — recognising 46 winners across India. These awards aim to promote water stewardship by showcasing scalable and replicable models of water management in both rural and urban areas.

Special Recognition: Jal Sanchay Jan Bhagidari 1.0

• Under the ‘Jal Sanchay Jan Bhagidari 1.0’ initiative, Telangana emerged as the best-performing state, completing over 5.2 lakh water conservation structures , followed by Chhattisgarh (4.05 lakh) and Rajasthan (3.64 lakh) . This initiative underlines the role of community-led participation and state-driven action in tackling India’s growing water stress challenges.

Exam-Oriented Facts

• Best State: Maharashtra

• Organiser: Union Ministry of Jal Shakti

• Award Ceremony: 18 November 2025, New Delhi

• Chief Guest: President Droupadi Murmu

• Special Category Winner: Telangana (Jal Sanchay Jan Bhagidari 1.0)

Outlook

The National Water Awards serve as a catalyst for encouraging innovation and efficiency in water management. By honouring states, institutions, and individuals, the initiative promotes a nationwide culture of water conservation , ensuring sustainable resource use amid climate change and increasing water demand.