World Water Day

World Water Day History

World Water Day highlights the importance of fresh and clean water in every sphere of life. Aligned with this purpose, issues such as water scarcity, conservation, sanitation, and impact of water pollution on various ecosystems are brought to the fore. This global event provides a platform for action where every individual, community and organization is urged to learn more about water-related issues and take proactive steps towards water conservation and protecting our freshwater resources.

The inception of World Water Day was in the year 1993 by the United Nations General Assembly to address the urge for sustainable management of freshwater resources. For Indians, this day captivates profound relevance. India, overwhelmed by its rapidly growing population, faces severe water scarcity and pollution, echoing the importance of this global event. Niti Aayog, a policymaking think tank of the government, reports that about 600 million people in India face high to extreme water stress, endorsing the urgency of discussing water scarcity, conservation, and importance of clean water.

On this auspicious day in India, various activities are organized, including educational events, campaigns, and exhibitions to raise awareness about the value of water. Community discussions, film screenings, online activities and local government engagements keep the day's significance in the limelight. Many non-government organizations also participate in organizing cleanup drives at the local water bodies. Making every drop count, World Water Day is observed each year on 22nd March.

Facts about World Water Day

• The theme for World Water Day in 2024 was Water For Peace. The theme in 2023 was Accelerating Change.
• According to the WHO, as of 2022, 2.2 billion people around the world have limited access to safe drinking water.
• The Jal Jeevan Mission, a project undertaken by the Indian government aiming to provide safe and adequate drinking water to all rural households by 2024, has also been a focal point of India's efforts to address water issues on World Water Day.
• India is the largest user of groundwater in the world, which means that it depends on water contained in aquifers for irrigation and drinking water.

In the News and Trending in India for World Water Day

Top things to do in India for World Water Day

• Don't waste water!!! Make a conscious effort to use less water on World Water Day and on other days. Some ways to reduce water consumption include, showers instead of baths, washing full loads of clothing only and turning off the tap while washing dishes and brushing teeth.
• Volunteer to help clean up trash and other debris along a beach or shore. This garbage and debris pollutes the water that we need in our daily lives.
• Attend Rallies and Marches: Cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore, etc., often hold rallies and marches on World Water Day, promoting water conservation and the importance of clean and safe water.
• Read a book to learn more about Water in India:
  High and Dry: Climate Change, Water, and the Economy - by World Bank
  River of Life, River of Death: The Ganges and India's Future - by Victor Mallet