L-R: Ms. Anupama Madhok Sud, Director and Editor, Water Digest magazine, Mr. Tim Curtis, Director of the New Delhi Regional Office and UNESCO Representative to Bhutan, India, the Maldives and Sri Lanka, Hon’ble Minister Shri Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, Ministry of Jal Shakti, Shri A. B. Pandya, Secretary General, International Commission on Irrigation & Drainageand Editor-in-Chief, Water Digest magazine, and Mr. Umesh Kumar Sharma, Director, Water Digest magazine
The Water Digest World Water Awards 2023-24, a premier global event celebrating innovation and excellence in water management, was successfully held for the 18th year, on February 5, 2024. Organised by Water Digest, the nation’s leading water magazine, this year’s ceremony brought together leading experts, policymakers, industry pioneers, and grassroots campaigners to recognise outstanding contributions towards sustainable water practices.
Held in New Delhi, the Awards showcased exemplary projects and initiatives that have significantly impacted the water landscape. With the theme of ‘Water Warriors for Peace’, the Awards focused on acknowledging efforts that address pressing water challenges, while highlighting the importance of collaborative action and innovation in achieving water sustainability goals.
Hon’ble Minister Shri Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, Ministry of Jal Shakti, graced the occasion with his presence, adding significant gravitas to the proceedings. Mr. Tim Curtis, Director of the New Delhi Regional Office and UNESCO Representative to Bhutan, India, the Maldives and Sri Lanka was also an honoured invitee at the Awards. Through insightful remarks, they inspired attendees to intensify their efforts towards achieving water security and resilience. The attendance of such esteemed guests emphasised the collaborative spirit required to address global water challenges and highlighted a shared commitment to sustainable water management.
A highlight of the Awards this year was the focus on the several grassroots initiatives and advocates that were felicitated. These Water Warriors embody the spirit of community-driven action and serve as catalysts for positive change. The Awards recognised innovative grassroots water projects and advocacy campaigns, which exemplify the power of collective action and leadership, inspiring others to join the movement towards a more sustainable water future.
The winners of the Water Digest World Water Awards 2023-24 demonstrated exceptional commitment and dedication to implementing solutions that address water scarcity, pollution, and access challenges. “We are proud to recognise the remarkable achievements of individuals and organisations who are driving positive change in the water sector,” said Ms. Anupama Madhok Sud, Director and Editor of Water Digest Magazine. “Their innovative solutions and tireless efforts are instrumental in shaping a sustainable future of water on our planet.”
The success of the Water Digest World Water Awards 2023-24 underscores the importance of collaboration and collective action in addressing the complex challenges facing the global water ecosystem. By celebrating excellence and sharing best practices, the awards ceremony serves as a catalyst for driving further innovation and progress in water management.
The Awards were held in partnership with UNESCO and supported by the Department of Water Resources, River Development and Ganga Rejuvenation, Ministry of Jal Shakti, Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs, with National Mission for Clean Ganga, National Water Mission, WAPCOS Ltd., Delhi Jal Board, NSF, Power Gilt Treasuries, Vermmillion Communications and Plugin as Associate Partners, and Times Now World as the Broadcast Partner. Ms. Mandira Bedi, celebrity and actress, played the charming host for the evening, conducting the proceedings with her trademark elegance.
For more information about the Water Digest World Water Awards, please visit TheWaterDigest.com.
