Prime Minister Narendra Modi will launch the 'Jal Shakti Abhiyan' campaign on World Water Day, along with signing a historic agreement to implement the Ken Betwa Link Project. This project, part of Former PM Atal Bihari Vajpayee's vision, aims to transfer water from surplus areas to drought-prone regions through interlinking of rivers. The campaign, to be implemented from March to November 2021, will engage citizens in water conservation efforts and hold discussions at the grassroots level for sustainable water management.
Jal Shakti Abhiyan: A Mission for Water Conservation and Sustainable Management
In recognition of the critical importance of water resources, Prime Minister Narendra Modi launched the "Jal Shakti Abhiyan" campaign on World Water Day, March 22, 2021. The campaign is aimed at galvanizing citizen participation in water conservation efforts and fostering sustainable water management practices.
Background
India is facing a severe water crisis, with over 600 million people living in water-stressed areas. The country's per capita water availability has declined by more than 40% since independence. This has been exacerbated by rapid population growth, urbanization, and climate change.
The Jal Shakti Abhiyan is a response to this crisis. The campaign is designed to address the challenges of water scarcity, contamination, and mismanagement through a multi-pronged approach.
Key Features of the Jal Shakti Abhiyan
Ken Betwa Link Project
In addition to launching the Jal Shakti Abhiyan, Prime Minister Modi also signed a historic agreement to implement the Ken Betwa Link Project. This project is part of the former PM Atal Bihari Vajpayee's vision to interlink rivers and transfer water from surplus areas to drought-prone regions.
The Ken Betwa Link Project will transfer water from the Ken River to the Betwa River, benefiting the drought-prone Bundelkhand region of India. The project is expected to irrigate over 10 lakh hectares of land and provide drinking water to millions of people.
Top 5 FAQs
1. What is the goal of the Jal Shakti Abhiyan? To conserve water resources, promote sustainable water management practices, and engage citizens in water conservation efforts.
2. How long will the Jal Shakti Abhiyan last? From March to November 2021.
3. What is the Ken Betwa Link Project? A river interlinking project that will transfer water from the Ken River to the Betwa River, benefiting the drought-prone Bundelkhand region.
4. When was the Ken Betwa Link Project conceived? As part of former PM Atal Bihari Vajpayee's vision.
5. What are some water-efficient practices promoted by the Jal Shakti Abhiyan? Rainwater harvesting, drip irrigation, and low-flush toilets.
The Jal Shakti Abhiyan is a significant step towards addressing India's water crisis. The campaign aims to create a "water-secure India" by engaging citizens, investing in water conservation infrastructure, and promoting sustainable water management practices.
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