Ministry of Jal Shakti launched 6th edition of ‘Jal Shakti Abhiyan: Catch the Rain – 2025’ on World Water Day (22nd March 2025) in Panchkula, Haryana, in partnership with Ministry of Environment, Forest & Climate Change (MoFCC) and Haryana Government. This campaign focuses on water conservation, rainwater harvesting, and sustainable resource management through community participation and scientific interventions.
Key Highlights of Initiative
Water Bodies Census:
- The first-ever census of water bodies in India was conducted, resulting in mapping of 24.24 lakh water bodies.
- As of June 2024, 671 Jal Shakti Centres were established, and numerous projects were completed, including:-
- 25,397 traditional water bodies renovated
- 71,096 reuse and recharge structures built
- 1.41 lakh watershed development projects completed
Complementary Programs:
- Jal-Jangal-Jan: Ek Prakritik Bandhan Abhiyan – A campaign focusing on the intrinsic bond between water, forests, and people.
- Water Resource Atlas 2025 and Integrated Water Resource Action Plan (2025-27) to strengthen water resource management.
- Introduction of an Online Canal Water Management System to enhance water management practices.
Jal Sanchay-Jan Bhagidari Abhiyan:
- A nationwide movement to connect people with water conservation through community-driven solutions and scientific planning.
About Jal Shakti Abhiyan 2025
Water Conservation and Rainwater Harvesting:
- Emphasizes the importance of geo-tagging, inventory of water bodies, and desilting/cleaning of water bodies to ensure water conservation.
- Jal Shakti Kendras will be set up in all districts to provide information and support for water conservation efforts.
Groundwater Recharge & Afforestation:
- Focus on groundwater recharge through the rejuvenation of abandoned borewells and afforestation to enhance recharge capabilities.
- Snow harvesting in hilly regions and rejuvenation of small rivers will also be prioritized.
Community Engagement:
- The theme for this year is “Jal Sanchay Jan Bhagidari: Jan Jagrukta Ki Or”, encouraging community action for water conservation and awareness.
Government’s Commitment:
- The campaign will cover 148 districts across India, targeting the most water-scarce regions.
- The slogan “Every Drop Counts” reinforces the need for collective action to safeguard India’s water resources.
Objectives and Mission
- Rainwater Harvesting and Groundwater Recharge: Aimed at ensuring water security amid climate challenges and promoting sustainable water management.
- Ecological Restoration: Strengthening the ecological link between forests, rivers, and springs to restore natural water cycles and preserve ecosystems.