Uttarakhand

New Delhi: The “Women for Water, Water for Women” initiative, a groundbreaking project conducted by the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs (MoHUA) in collaboration with the National Urban Livelihood Mission (NULM) and the Odisha Urban Academy, concluded with remarkable success on its third day, November 9, 2023. This transformative campaign, conducted under the flagship program Atal Mission for Rejuvenation and Urban Transformation (AMRUT), was aimed at promoting women’s active involvement in water governance.

Spanning three days, the campaign witnessed the enthusiastic participation of more than 14,000 women from various regions of the country (excluding poll-bound States), who actively embraced “Jal Diwali.” Throughout the campaign, these empowered women embarked on visits to over 530 Water Treatment Plants (WTPs) across the nation, gaining invaluable firsthand insights into the intricate processes involved in delivering clean and safe drinking water to households.

State officials extended a warm welcome to the Self-Help Group (SHG) women, recognizing their pivotal role in the campaign’s resounding success. Field visit kits, containing essential items such as training manuals, water bottles, sippers, eco-friendly bags, and badges, were generously provided to all participants.

During the course of the campaign, women delved deeper into the realm of water infrastructure, receiving expert guidance on water quality testing protocols, and actively conducting these tests themselves. This newfound knowledge equips them to ensure the highest standards of water purity for their communities, reflecting a profound sense of ownership and responsibility toward water infrastructure.

The core focus areas of “Jal Diwali” encompassed acquainting and educating women about the extensive impact of the AMRUT scheme, providing comprehensive exposure to Water Treatment Plants, and fostering inclusivity through souvenirs and articles crafted by Women Self-Help Groups (SHGs). Additionally, participants pledged their commitment to conserving and responsibly utilizing water resources, a crucial step toward sustainable water management.

The combined endeavors of SHGs and State officials hailing from 29 States/Union Territories represent a significant leap toward inclusivity and women’s empowerment in the vital realm of water infrastructure.