Maharashtra To Observe Water Conservation Week From August 15; ‘Walk For Water’ Planned Across Districts

Maharashtra will observe Water Conservation Week from August 15 to 21, with a finale of Water Conservation Day on August 21, according to Soil and Water Conservation Minister Sanjay Rathod. The week will see a series of awareness and community-driven activities across the state, aimed at boosting public participation in soil and water conservation efforts and promoting the 'Paani Adva, Paani Jirva' (Save Water, Recharge Water) message.

District administrations and all relevant government bodies are tasked with collaborating to maximize public engagement in conservation initiatives.

During a meeting via video conference, Rathod discussed preparations with senior officials, district collectors, Zilla Parishad CEOs, and district soil and water conservation officers. August 21 marks Water Conservation Day, honoring the late former Maharashtra Chief Minister Sudhakarrao Naik, who championed the 'Paani Adva, Paani Jirva' campaign and helped establish a statewide movement for water conservation.

On the final day of the week, a three-kilometer 'Maha Walkathon – Walk for Water' will be conducted in each district. The event will follow the theme 'Save Soil, Save Water, Secure Tomorrow,' encouraging citizens, elected representatives, students, youth, government employees, NGOs, and representatives from various sectors to join in. Mumbai's Environmental Office (EOW) is investigating an alleged ₹218 crore fraud involving mortgaged Unimark India properties.

A state-wide 'Reel for Soil and Water Conservation' competition will also be held for young people aged 15 to 30. Participants must create 30-to-60-second Instagram reels featuring soil and water conservation. The government will run a statewide 'Water Conservation Campaign' from August 15, 2026, to January 26, 2027, featuring school and college competitions, the 'One School-One Recharge Pit' initiative, and Jalmitra/Jaldoot programs.

On August 21, schools will pay tribute to late Sudhakarrao Naik and have students take a soil and water conservation pledge. Rural and urban activities will include cleaning water sources, tree planting, laying foundations for farm ponds, and inaugurating water conservation projects. Rathod emphasized that water conservation is a shared responsibility between the government and citizens, urging the public to participate actively in building a water-secure and prosperous Maharashtra.