India and European Union agree to deepen cooperation in Sustainable Water Management

On September 18, 2024, the 6th EU-India Water Forum was held in New Delhi, in conjunction with the 8th India Water Week. This event signifies a pivotal moment in the collaborative endeavors between the European Union and India, aimed at enhancing sustainable water management practices.

The forum convened a diverse group of government representatives, policymakers, experts, and businesses from both India and the EU, all of whom share a common goal: addressing pressing water-related challenges through innovative solutions. During the plenary session, esteemed speakers such as Shri Raj Bhushan Choudhary, Hon’ble Minister of State for Jal Shakti, and Mr. Hervé Delphin, EU Ambassador to India, emphasised their commitment to bolstering water cooperation.

This gathering served as a crucial platform for confronting urgent water issues, fostering innovation, and encouraging sustainable investments. Key themes included advancements in river basin management, the exchange of innovative technologies, and the promotion of environmentally responsible water initiatives.

Since its inception in 2016, the India-EU Water Partnership (IEWP) has played a fundamental role in these initiatives, underscoring a collective commitment to achieving a more water-secure and sustainable future. As the partnership embarks on its third phase, EU and India are collaborating on river management on the Tapi and the Ramganga River Basins and will extend their efforts to other key basins like the Brahmaputra.

Noteworthy highlights from the partnership include:

Trilateral Cooperation: Exploring collaborative opportunities with East Africa to tackle water challenges in regions such as Lake Victoria and Lake Tanganyika.

River Basin Management: Joint initiatives aimed at enhancing water management practices in critical river basins.

Innovation and Technology Transfer: Sharing knowledge and expertise to develop pioneering water solutions.

Sustainable Investments: Advocating for responsible and environmentally friendly water projects.

In conclusion, the 6th EU-India Water Forum encapsulates the ongoing dedication of both regions towards sustainable water management, fostering a collaborative spirit that is essential for addressing global water challenges.