The Ministry of Jal Shakti convened a high-level brainstorming session in New Delhi, chaired by Union Minister Shri C. R. Patil, to discuss measures to strengthen water governance, enhance service delivery and ensure long-term sustainability in the water sector. Ministers of State Shri V. Somanna and Dr Raj Bhushan Choudhary, along with senior officials, participated in the deliberations focused on water resource management, drinking water and sanitation, river rejuvenation, irrigation efficiency and institutional reforms.

Shri Patil underscored the need for improved service quality, stronger financial planning and efficient use of public resources. He highlighted the importance of community participation, school-level awareness and scaling successful models across regions. He reaffirmed the Government’s commitment to transparent, citizen-focused delivery of water and sanitation services.

The Ministers of State stressed adopting an integrated approach to managing floods and droughts, improving the use of available data, promoting rainwater harvesting and ensuring efficient utilisation of surface and groundwater resources. They also highlighted the need to strengthen preparedness for climate-related challenges.

Senior officials emphasised reinforcing service delivery mechanisms, deepening convergence between schemes, strengthening institutions at all levels and building grassroots capacities. The Ministry will compile the key suggestions for follow-up action in consultation with relevant departments and States.