Why is it in the news?
The Union Minister of Jal Shakti launched the Jal Mahotsav 2026 campaign on International Women’s Day.
The initiative promotes community participation in water conservation and rural water management.
Category: Economy
Important Points:
● Jal Mahotsav is organised by the Department of Drinking Water and Sanitation under the Ministry of Jal Shakti.
● It is observed annually from 8 March to 22 March.
● The campaign tagline is “Gaon ka Utsav, Desh ka Mahotsav”.
● It aims to strengthen community participation in water management under the Jal Jeevan Mission.
● Jal Arpan Diwas marks the handing over of rural water infrastructure to Gram Panchayats and VWSCs.
● Activities such as Jal Bandhan and Jal Sankalp promote water conservation awareness.
● The campaign is implemented at national, state, district and Gram Panchayat levels.
● Gram Panchayat activities include Jal Chaupal discussions and water quality testing demonstrations.
● Over 24 lakh women participate in water quality testing using Field Testing Kits.