From India to Global South, a Gujarat water-governance model

In the weeks leading up to the India International Water Week, New Delhi has become a hub for discussions on climate-resilient water management. The event has highlighted India's progress in ensuring sustainable water supply, efficient use of water, and treating wastewater as a valuable resource. India's expertise in water governance has gained significant international recognition, as the country has faced numerous climate shocks and access challenges. However, it is now well-prepared to tackle climate extremes such as floods and droughts.

Over the past decade, India has launched several large-scale programs to improve water governance, rejuvenate rivers, enhance water and sanitation access, and promote community-driven conservation. These initiatives, such as the Swachh Bharat Mission, Jal Jeevan Mission (JJM), Jal Shakti Abhiyan, Namami Gange, Atal Bhujal Yojana (ABY), and Per Drop More Crop (PDMC), were initially developed and implemented by then-Gujarat Chief Minister Narendra Modi between 2001 and 2014.

This period served as a laboratory for the water governance reforms that subsequently took place across India after 2014.

A comprehensive study titled "From Gujarat to India: Water Lessons for the World" delves into the water governance reforms in Gujarat and India, spanning from 2001 to 2026. The study, based on official data, policy records, literature, and consultations with practitioners, reveals four key lessons that can be applied to other countries in the Global South to strengthen water security.

These lessons emphasize the importance of leading with governance, managing both the water resource and service together, rooting action in communities, and building for scale from the start.

The study suggests that political leadership and institutional strengthening are essential for water security, as they are more effective than infrastructure alone. India's framework for this approach, known as the "4 Ps" (political leadership, public financing, partnerships, and people's participation), has been widely embraced.

Additionally, managing the water resource and service together is crucial, as both aspects must be addressed concurrently to ensure long-term success. Planning for water resources and services in tandem can lead to significant cost savings and reduced risks of water insecurity in the long run.

Moreover, the study highlights the significance of community ownership in driving water access and conservation efforts. Effective local water governance institutions, such as India's Pani Samitis, coupled with consistent service delivery and a balance between internal and external resources, can significantly contribute to water security. The Chintan Shivirs and the recent Departmental Summit on Water are prime examples of successful community engagement in water-related policies.

Lastly, the case study underscores the urgency of scaling up water governance reforms to meet the growing global demand. Despite the challenges, India's experience demonstrates that with the right focus on governance, resource management, community involvement, and scalability, countries in the Global South can overcome water security challenges and work towards achieving SDG 6.