Maharashtra Tops Nation in Water Conservation; Navi Mumbai, Nashik Associations Among Award Winners
Mumbai, 12th November 2025: Reaffirming its leadership in sustainable resource management, Maharashtra has emerged as the top-performing state in India for excellence in water conservation and management, outpacing Gujarat and Haryana, which secured the second and third ranks, respectively.
The recognition highlights Maharashtra’s consistent focus on community-led initiatives, efficient irrigation systems, and innovative urban water-saving practices.
Navi Mumbai and Nashik Associations Shine
Among the state’s major achievements, the Navi Mumbai Municipal Corporation (NMMC) bagged the first prize in the Urban Local Bodies category for its exemplary work in rainwater harvesting, wastewater recycling, and city-level water reuse projects.
In the Water Users Association category, the Kanifnath Association from Nashik district clinched the second prize, earning national recognition for its collective efforts in improving irrigation efficiency and promoting community participation in water conservation.
The winners of the National Water Awards were announced by Union Minister for Jal Shakti C.R. Patil on Tuesday. Instituted by the Department of Water Resources, River Development and Ganga Rejuvenation under the Ministry of Jal Shakti, the awards celebrate individuals and institutions making outstanding contributions to sustainable water management and awareness across the country.
The award ceremony is scheduled for November 18 at Vigyan Bhavan, New Delhi, where President Droupadi Murmu will felicitate the winners. Minister Patil noted that the awards aim to “promote water conservation, enhance water literacy, and showcase replicable best practices for national benefit.”
This year’s edition will honour 46 awardees, including joint winners, across 10 categories such as:
Best District
Gram Panchayat
Urban Local Body
School/College
Industry
Water Users Association
Research Organization
NGO/Civil Society Group
Individual Contribution (Jal Yodha)
The ministry received 751 applications from across India, which underwent a rigorous evaluation process involving field inspections by the Central Water Commission and the Central Ground Water Board. An independent jury finalized the winners based on on-ground performance and innovation.
Each award includes a citation, silver trophy, and a cash prize ranging from ₹1 lakh to ₹5 lakh, depending on the category.
With this recognition, Maharashtra continues to lead the way in integrated water resource management — combining policy innovation, community engagement, and technology-driven solutions — setting a national benchmark for other states to emulate.
