Maharashtra to Observe Water Conservation Week from August 15 to 21
Maharashtra Soil and Water Conservation Minister Sanjay Rathod announced on Tuesday that the state will observe 'Water Conservation Week' from August 15 to 21. The week-long program will culminate in 'Water Conservation Day' on August 21, featuring a series of community-led activities and awareness drives across all districts of Maharashtra.
Speaking during a video conference meeting, Minister Rathod reviewed preparations with senior departmental officials, district collectors, chief executive officers of Zilla Parishads, and district soil and water conservation officers. He directed all district administrations and government agencies to coordinate efforts to maximize public participation in soil and water conservation projects.
The initiative aims to spread the message of 'Paani Adva, Paani Jirva' (Save Water, Recharge Water). August 21 is designated as Water Conservation Day in honor of former Maharashtra Chief Minister late Sudhakarrao Naik, who spearheaded the 'Paani Adva, Paani Jirva' movement and built statewide momentum for water conservation.
As part of the observances on August 21, every district will host a three-kilometre 'Maha Walkathon – Walk for Water' centered on the theme 'Save Soil, Save Water, Secure Tomorrow'. The government has invited citizens, elected representatives, students, youth, government staff, and non-governmental organizations to join the event.
Youth aged 15 to 30 will also be able to participate in a state-level 'Reel for Soil and Water Conservation' competition by creating 30-to-60-second Instagram reels highlighting conservation topics.
On Water Conservation Day, schools across the state will pay tribute to late Sudhakarrao Naik and administer a conservation pledge to students. Local activities in urban and rural areas will include cleaning water bodies, tree plantation drives, and the foundation-laying and inauguration of farm ponds and related projects.
In addition, the state government plans to conduct a broader statewide 'Water Conservation Campaign' from August 15, 2026, to January 26, 2027. This long-term drive will incorporate school and college competitions, the 'One School-One Recharge Pit' project, and Jalmitra/Jaldoot programs.
