C. R. Patil has directed officials to ensure adequate rainwater recharge capacity under Jal Sanchay Jan Bhagidari Abhiyan 2.0, calling for stronger public participation and prioritization of water conservation projects across all districts and urban local bodies in Rajasthan.
Addressing a virtual review meeting from New Delhi, the Union Jal Shakti Minister assessed the campaign’s progress and issued key guidelines to strengthen ongoing initiatives. He praised the efforts being carried out under the leadership of Chief Minister Bhajanlal Sharma, particularly highlighting Dungarpur district’s river conservation work through community participation as a model initiative.
Ramjal Setu Link Project: A Major Boost for Rajasthan
Minister Patil emphasized that the state government is committed to making Rajasthan water-secure, inspired by the Prime Minister’s vision of conserving every drop of rainwater for every village and every field.
He described the Ramjal Setu Link Project as a “boon” for Rajasthan. Additionally, the Detailed Project Report (DPR) for bringing Yamuna water to the Shekhawati region under the Yamuna Water Agreement is in its final stage.
Focus on Rainwater Harvesting Infrastructure
Chief Minister Bhajanlal Sharma joined the virtual meeting from Kishangarh Airport and stressed the need for active participation from:
Urban Local Bodies
Panchayati Raj Institutions
Civil societies
The general public
He instructed districts to accelerate the construction and repair of rainwater harvesting structures and ensure targets are achieved within the stipulated timeline.
From Campaign to Mass Movement
The Chief Minister stated that the Jal Sanchay Jan Bhagidari Abhiyan, initiated under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision, has now evolved into a people’s movement.
During Phase 1.0 of the campaign:
Rajasthan secured third place nationally.
Barmer and Bhilwara districts delivered outstanding performances.
Both districts were appreciated and awarded by the central government.
Recognizing the importance of water in a drought-prone state like Rajasthan, the government has also launched initiatives such as:
Karmabhoomi se Matrubhoomi
Vande Ganga Jal Sanrakshan Jan Abhiyan
These efforts aim to improve groundwater levels and revive traditional water bodies across the state.
Phase 2 of Vande Ganga Campaign from May 25
Chief Minister Sharma announced that the second phase of the Vande Ganga Jal Sanrakshan Jan Abhiyan will commence on Ganga Dussehra (May 25) and continue until World Environment Day (June 5).
The campaign is expected to further strengthen public awareness and deliver long-term positive outcomes for water conservation in Rajasthan.
Review Meeting Participation
District Collectors from Dungarpur and Bhilwara presented progress reports during the meeting. Senior officials including Chief Secretary V. Srinivas, Additional Chief Secretaries, National Water Mission representatives, and district authorities also attended virtually.
With renewed momentum, Rajasthan is positioning itself as a leader in water conservation — transforming policy initiatives into a mass-driven movement aimed at securing every drop for future generations.
