The Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs (MoHUA) introduced a groundbreaking initiative, “Women for Water, Water for Women Campaign,” under the flagship scheme – Atal Mission for Rejuvenation and Urban Transformation (AMRUT). In collaboration with the National Urban Livelihood Mission (NULM) and with the Odisha Urban Academy as the knowledge partner, this campaign commences on November 7, 2023, and extends until November 9, 2023. The primary focus of this campaign is to empower women in water governance, celebrating “Jal Diwali.”
Educating Women on Water Treatment Processes
The primary goal of the campaign is to involve women in water governance by providing them with first-hand knowledge about water treatment processes. Women will be granted the opportunity to visit Water Treatment Plants (WTPs) in their respective cities, gaining insights into the critical procedures involved in ensuring the delivery of clean and safe drinking water to households. Furthermore, these visits will familiarize women with water quality testing protocols, essential for ensuring the delivery of water of requisite quality to citizens. The campaign aims to instill a sense of ownership and belonging among women towards water infrastructure.
Nationwide Impact and Outreach
With over 3,000 Water Treatment Plants across India, the campaign aims to involve women from more than 550 WTPs, constituting over 20,000 MLD (more than 35% of the country’s total) operational capacity. The objective is to empower women with knowledge about water treatment processes, enabling them to ensure access to safe and clean drinking water for their households.
Addressing Gender Equality and Empowerment
By educating and engaging women in water governance, MoHUA intends to address issues of gender equality and promote inclusivity in sectors traditionally dominated by men. The campaign’s aim is to empower women with knowledge and expertise in water infrastructure, enhancing their ability to ensure safe and clean drinking water for their families.
Anticipated Outcomes and Focus Areas
The campaign’s Phase I, “Jal Diwali,” anticipates participation from more than 15,000 Self Help Group (SHG) women across the country, aiming to increase awareness, instill a sense of ownership and responsibility, and promote inclusivity. The campaign’s focus areas include familiarizing women with water treatment processes, promoting inclusivity through souvenirs, educating about the AMRUT scheme, and facilitating positive community impact.
MoHUA’s Call to Action and Support from State and City Officials
State and city officials from AMRUT and NULM will facilitate these visits by identifying Water Treatment Plants. MoHUA has urged all state and city officials to actively participate, marking a significant step toward gender inclusivity and the vital space of water infrastructure under AMRUT. This initiative marks a significant stride towards gender equality and women’s involvement in pivotal sectors for community development.
