Vice-President C. P. Radhakrishnan inaugurates the 9th India International Water Week in New Delhi

Vice-President of India C. P. Radhakrishnan inaugurated the 9th India International Water Week (IIWW) 2026 at Bharat Mandapam in New Delhi. Organized by the Ministry of Jal Shakti, this five-day event is scheduled from September 22 to 26. The theme for this year is 'Climate Resilient Water Management.'

Addressing the inaugural ceremony, the Vice-President described water as the foundation of life and civilization. He emphasized the need for prudent use, conservation, and effective management of water resources. He stated that water security is essential to ensure public and national security.

Sharing his childhood experiences, the Vice-President expressed sensitivity toward water scarcity. He mentioned his 'Rath Yatra' from two decades ago, which aimed to interlink rivers and raise awareness about water conservation. He noted that traditional Indian knowledge is invaluable in addressing today's water-related challenges.

Expressing concern over India's water availability, he pointed out that while India is home to 18 percent of the world's population, it possesses only 4 percent of global freshwater resources. He appealed to citizens to adopt small changes in their daily lives to save water.

Considering the growing impact of climate change and urbanization, the Vice-President called for the adoption of river-basin management, rainwater harvesting, and modern irrigation techniques. He highlighted the importance of cooperation between states and praised agreements like the 'Kishau Multipurpose Project.'

Reiterating Prime Minister Narendra Modi's call for 'Jal Sanchay Jan Bhagidari,' he emphasized making water conservation a mass movement. He also stressed the need for efficient water use and recycling in agriculture and industries.

On this occasion, the Vice-President launched the Sustainable Urban River Management framework and an AI-powered reservoir sediment management system. He expressed confidence that this event would provide innovative technical and policy approaches for water management.

The event was attended by Union Minister for Jal Shakti C. R. Patil, Ministers of State for Jal Shakti V. Somanna and Raj Bhushan Choudhary, along with several dignitaries and experts. The Vice-President urged all participants to commit themselves to water conservation.