Rajasthan News – Barmer district has earned a national recognition for its outstanding work in rainwater harvesting and public participation. For this achievement, the district will be honored with the “Water Conservation Public Participation Award.” This award will be presented by President Draupadi Murmu at the 6th National Water Awards ceremony to be held at Vigyan Bhawan in New Delhi on November 18, 2025.
Prize money of 2 crore rupees
Barmer will receive 2 crore rupees along with this award. District Collector Tina Dabi will receive this award on behalf of the district.
“Catch the Rain” campaign has changed the landscape
District Collector Tina Dabi stated that large-scale tank construction under the “Catch the Rain” campaign has resulted in the availability of fresh water in rural areas for 3-4 months. Previously, most of the rainwater was wasted, but this community-based model has elevated the district to the top nationally.
Rooftop Structures and Water Sources Revival
During the campaign—
- Rainwater harvesting structures were developed on the rooftops of various buildings,
- Lakes, ponds, and stepwells were revived,
- and traditional water conservation techniques were revived.
Under the Jal Shakti Abhiyan, states have been given targets to construct at least 10,000 artificial recharge and storage structures, with Barmer making commendable progress.
Work also progressing rapidly in urban areas
This initiative is gaining momentum in urban areas with the support of the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs and the Ministry of Jal Shakti. The first Jal Sanchay Jan Bhagidari Samman announced this year includes a total of 100 awards—representing 3 states, 67 districts, 6 municipal corporations, 1 urban body, 2 ministries/departments, 2 industries, 3 NGOs, 2 philanthropic organizations, and 14 nodal officers.
All awards have been finalized based on verified data uploaded on the portal.
