Jal Mahotsav 2026 Begins: Nationwide Jal Arpan Diwas Emphasizes Community Water Ownership

• Union Minister CR Paatil launched Jal Mahotsav 2026 and Jal Arpan Diwas from Navsari, Gujarat, on International Women's Day.
• The nationwide campaign, from March 8-22, aims to strengthen community ownership of rural drinking water systems and promote water conservation under Jal Jeevan Mission.
• Ministers V Somanna and Raj Bhushan Choudhary joined from Maharashtra and Bihar; events include Jal Arpan, Jal Bandhan, and water quality testing.
• Taglined "Gaon ka Utsav, Desh ka Mahotsav," the festival highlights women's leadership in water governance and the transformative impact of JJM.
• The Mahotsav will be organized at four levels, culminating on World Water Day (March 22) with nationwide Jal Arpan ceremonies and a mega event on March 11.