NEW DELHI: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday called for the robust use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) to strengthen water data governance and improve the systematic collection, analysis, and utilization of water-sector data.
Chairing the valedictory session of the two-day National Departmental Summit on Water, organized by the Ministry of Jal Shakti, the Prime Minister underscored the need for anticipatory and integrated planning to address water scarcity across the country.
The summit marks 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.
Strengthening Data and Technology
Emphasizing the critical need for integrated water data management, the Prime Minister suggested bringing fragmented water-sector data together in a uniform format. He strongly recommended using AI for advanced data collection and analysis to support more effective, long-term water management and governance.
He also called for the greater adoption of water-saving technologies. To facilitate this, he suggested hosting dedicated exhibitions and workshops that expose Indian manufacturers and stakeholders to global best practices, enabling them to develop and scale efficient solutions domestically.
Drawing on his past experience as the Chief Minister of Gujarat, PM Modi noted that instances of water scarcity can be successfully transformed into opportunities through systematic planning, steadfast commitment, adequate resources, and capable officers.
Community Participation and Urban Challenges
Highlighting the importance of Jan Bhagidari (public participation), the Prime Minister proposed promoting “Jal Utsav” (water festivals) to create greater public awareness and turn conservation into a mass movement. He further advocated for making the de-silting of water bodies a regular program supported by clear criteria and Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs).
Addressing the challenges of rapid urbanization, PM Modi called for sensitizing Urban Local Bodies to future water requirements and population growth. He proposed organizing similar Chintan Shivirs (brainstorming sessions) specifically for these local bodies to tackle urban water stress effectively.
Regarding infrastructure, he stressed the need for rigorous dam safety preparedness before every monsoon, strict adherence to prescribed precautions, and incorporating water awareness into school educational curricula.
Knowledge Sharing and Key Outcomes
To build institutional capacity, the Prime Minister called for strengthening water management programs in universities and higher educational institutions. He also suggested structured inter-State study visits involving public representatives, officials, and farmers to facilitate the practical learning and replication of successful interventions.
Union Minister for Jal Shakti, C.R. Patil, summarized four key outcomes expected from the summit deliberations:
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Accelerated completion of ongoing water infrastructure projects.
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Strengthening water conservation as a sustained people’s movement.
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Ensuring the long-term sustainability of drinking-water sources.
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Institutionalising effective operation and maintenance of rural drinking-water schemes.
Appreciating the intensive two-day deliberations, the Prime Minister firmly stated that the summit should not remain a one-time exercise. He directed that the actionable and time-bound points emerging from the discussions must be pursued through a continuous, rigorous process of review and learning.
