New Delhi, September 22, 2026 ; Vice President C. P. Radhakrishnan has called for stronger and more sustainable management of India’s water resources, stressing that water security is closely linked to people’s security and national security.
Addressing the inaugural session of the 9th India International Water Week (IIWW) 2026 at Bharat Mandapam in New Delhi on Tuesday, Radhakrishnan emphasised the need for judicious use, conservation and efficient management of water amid growing challenges from climate change, rapid urbanisation and population growth.
Integrated Water Management Essential
Radhakrishnan said India needs an integrated approach combining:
- River-basin management
- Groundwater recharge
- Rainwater harvesting
- Efficient irrigation
- Water conservation and storage
- Sustainable water management
He urged that water resources be conserved and managed not only to meet present requirements but also to safeguard the needs of future generations.
India Faces Growing Water Pressure
The Vice President noted that India accounts for around 2.4 per cent of the world’s land area and about 18 per cent of its population, while possessing only around 4 per cent of global freshwater resources.
He said the challenges surrounding water have become increasingly complex because of climate change, urban expansion and population growth.
The country also faces contrasting water situations, with some regions experiencing drought-like conditions while others face floods.
Inter-State Water Sharing
Radhakrishnan highlighted the importance of cooperation between states in addressing water-sharing issues.
He referred to 10 inter-state memoranda of understanding for water sharing and cited projects including Ken-Betwa and Kishau as examples of cooperation.
He specifically mentioned an agreement involving Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Rajasthan, Delhi, Haryana and Uttar Pradesh, describing cooperation among six states on water sharing as a significant development.
Warning Over Future Water Conflicts
The Vice President also cautioned that increasing water scarcity could become a major source of conflict as populations and urban areas continue to grow.
He referred to concerns expressed internationally about water becoming a potential driver of future conflicts.
Radhakrishnan stressed that sustainable water management will be particularly important as India works towards its goal of becoming a developed economy by 2047.
India International Water Week 2026
The five-day India International Water Week 2026 is being held from September 22 to 26 under the theme “Climate Resilient Water Management.”
The event brings together policymakers, international water experts, researchers, industry representatives, practitioners, civil society organisations and young professionals.
The Netherlands and Germany are participating as partner countries, while 14 states are participating as partner states.
The programme includes ministerial and global water leaders’ forums, country and thematic sessions, practitioners’ forums, as well as startup, youth and industrial forums.
The Second International WASH Conference is also being held alongside IIWW from September 22 to 24.
Radhakrishnan expressed hope that the deliberations would generate innovative technological, socio-economic and environmental approaches for climate-resilient and integrated water management.
