SDG 6: Clean Water and Sanitation | SDG 13: Climate Action
Institutions: NITI Aayog | Ministry of Jal Shakti
NITI Aayog held a brainstorming session bringing together experts, Himalayan state representatives, academia (e.g. IIT Mandi), and grassroots organisations to examine ways to guarantee all-weather tap water supply in higher Himalayan regions and released a Compendium of innovations and field practices.
Discussions emphasised community engagement in design, natural resource conservation, and local ownership of water infrastructure. Key solutions proposed include spring rejuvenation, drip-based water systems, agroforestry, resilient engineering materials, improved data collection, and building institutional capacity at the community level.
The Compendium collates case studies from Himalayan states on integrating technology, policy, and community practices to sustain water supply even in extreme terrain.
Securing dependable water supply in mountainous zones advances both resilience to climate impacts and livelihood sustainability. By combining technical innovation with community ownership, the approach helps overcome geographic, resource, and governance barriers.
Relevant Question for Policy Stakeholders:
How can government policy better enable Himalayan communities to co-own and sustain high-standards water systems in fragile terrain?
Follow the full news here: https://www.pib.gov.in/PressReleasePage.aspx?PRID=2176996