Haryana bags ‘Third Best State’ for water management
President Droupadi Murmu to Present Honour on November 18 in New Delhi
Babushahi Bureau
Chandigarh, November 12, 2025: In a major recognition of its sustainable water management efforts, Haryana has been adjudged the ‘Third Best State’ in the 6th National Water Awards 2024, announced by the Ministry of Jal Shakti, Government of India.
Sharing the achievement, Haryana Irrigation and Water Resources Minister Shruti Choudhry said the honour reflects the state’s remarkable strides in promoting integrated, data-driven, and community-based water conservation practices.
“The recognition underscores Haryana’s commitment to sustainable and inclusive water management under the visionary leadership of Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini,” said Choudhry, adding that President Droupadi Murmu will confer the award at Vigyan Bhawan, New Delhi, on November 18, 2025.
The Minister informed that Haryana’s nomination was verified through an extensive ground-truthing exercise by officials from the Ministry of Jal Shakti, the Central Water Commission (CWC) and the Central Ground Water Board (CGWB). Based on their findings, Haryana was ranked third nationwide for its measurable impact on water conservation and irrigation reforms.
Highlighting the success of the Integrated Water Resources Action Plan 2023–25, Choudhry said the state has already achieved 84% of its water conservation target, saving nearly 5.80 billion cubic meters of water.
She also cited the revival of the JLN Feeder Canal as a key milestone, noting that it has expanded irrigation capacity by 50,000 hectares, cut leakage losses by 90%, and boosted irrigation intensity from 40% to 85%—a major gain for farmers and rural communities.
Expressing gratitude to the Ministry of Jal Shakti for acknowledging Haryana’s consistent progress, Choudhry extended special thanks to Union Minister C.R. Patil for his support, and credited Union Minister Manohar Lal for guiding the state’s sustainable water policies.
“This honour is not just for Haryana’s government but for every citizen who has contributed to conserving every drop of water,” she added.