Consume efficiently, let water flow into Yamuna: Patil to riparian states

In a statement, the Union Jal Shakti Ministry said, “Various aspects related to regulation and management of surface water like implementation of storage projects in Yamuna basin; Transfer of Rajasthan’s share of Yamuna water; Maintenance of e-Flow in river Yamuna; Inclusion of representative of NMCG as a member in UYRB; etc. were discussed during the meeting.”

“The Committee noted with satisfaction that the states of Haryana and Rajasthan are working together for implementation of the project for transfer of Rajasthan’s share of Yamuna river to water scarce region in Rajasthan at the earliest. The matter related to ensuring requisite flow in river Yamuna for its rejuvenation was also discussed,” the statement said.

“Union Minister observed that all states will have to reduce their consumption by adopting water efficient practices and spare water to flow in river Yamuna. He called upon all concerned states to explore the possibility in positive manner and asked all partner states to work in the larger interest of the country for implementation of three storage projects in the Yamuna basin. These measures will help in improvement of water availability during lean season as well as in ensuring e-flow and reducing pollution,” it said.

In the meeting, senior officers from the Centre and six basin states, namely, Haryana, Himachal Pradesh, Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh, Uttarakhand and NCT of Delhi were also present.

Earlier in the day, Patil addressed the “Vision for Sujalam Bharat” Summit 2025, organised by his ministry. Addressing the gathering, Paatil, highlighted that, in line with the Prime Minister’s vision, the Sujalam Bharat Summit—led by the Ministry of Jal Shakti and closely coordinated with NITI Aayog—aims to bring grassroot perspectives into national decision-making, with a focus on strengthening water management, sanitation, and sustainable practices across the country. He emphasized that the Summit forms a vital part of a broader national effort to integrate scientific approaches, sustainable practices, and community participation into a unified framework for long-term water security.

Patil noted that with nearly 18% of the global population and only around 4% of freshwater resources, the country is facing challenges arising from rapid urbanization, industrial growth, shifting land-use patterns, and climate variability. He stated that the solution lies in the creation of water-conservation structures with active community participation. He also highlighted that Jal Shakti Abhiyan: Catch the Rain has led to the creation of 22.5 lakh water-conservation works and more than 42 lakh plantation activities.