By THE NEWSMAN OF INDIA.COM |Chhattisgarh has once again earned national acclaim by securing top honours in water conservation and public participation, marking a moment of immense pride for the state. Under the guidance of Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai and the visionary leadership of Rajesh Kumar Toppo, IAS, Secretary and State-Level Nodal Officer, Water Resources Department, Chhattisgarh has been conferred with the prestigious Jal Sanchay Jan Bhagidari (JSJB) 1.0 Award in the category of Best States for Water Conservation Works by the Ministry of Jal Shakti, Government of India.

This recognition reflects Toppo’s tireless commitment and dynamic stewardship, which have positioned Chhattisgarh as a frontrunner in community-led water conservation initiatives. His efforts have focused not only on strengthening sustainable water management systems but also on fostering a deep sense of shared responsibility among citizens. Through extensive public engagement, innovative practices, and behavioural change, the Jal Sanchay Jan Bhagidari campaign found strong and sustained momentum across the state.

National-level appreciation further underscores Chhattisgarh’s achievement. In a congratulatory message, Archana Varma, IAS, Additional Secretary and Mission Director, National Water Mission, praised the state for catalyzing “water-positive actions” and rekindling respect for water as a vital resource. She noted that Chhattisgarh’s people-centric approach under Toppo’s leadership has set a powerful national example of community-driven conservation.

Alongside the state-level honour, Chhattisgarh has also secured First Position nationwide under the Municipal Corporation category for exceptional water conservation efforts in urban areas. The districts have delivered an outstanding performance across zonal categories. In Zone-2 (Category 1), Balod secured First Place and Rajnandgaon Second Place. In Category 2, Mahasamund earned First Place and an additional Third Place for the state. In Category 3, Baloda Bazar secured Second Place, Gariaband achieved Third Place, Bilaspur secured First Place, and Raigarh earned Second Place.

These remarkable achievements together have brought approximately ₹13 crore in award funds to the state and its districts. Nearly seven IAS officers and senior departmental officials from Chhattisgarh have been honoured by the Ministry of Jal Shakti at New Delhi, reflecting the scale of the state’s success. This recognition was presented today in the august presence of the President of India at Vigyan Bhawan during the National Water Awards Ceremony.

As India advances towards Jal Sanchay Jan Bhagidari 2.0, with an ambitious vision of creating 10 million artificial recharge and conservation structures, Chhattisgarh’s proven model stands as a guiding light. Rajesh Kumar Toppo’s leadership continues to inspire, aligning the state’s mission for a Water Secure Chhattisgarh with the national aspiration for a Water Secure Bharat.

This historic recognition marks a proud milestone for Chhattisgarh, affirming its position as a national leader in sustainable water management and participatory conservation.