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Gujarat Launches Water Campaign Early to Boost Monsoon Preparedness

The Gujarat government will launch its annual Sujalam Sufalam Jal Abhiyan water conservation campaign from February 21, starting earlier than in previous years. The decision, taken in a cabinet meeting chaired by Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel, aims to accelerate water storage works ahead of the monsoon season. A key focus this year is the early deepening of lakes to store water even if the rains arrive sooner. Over the past eight years, the campaign has stored nearly 13,994 million cubic feet of water and generated employment worth over 26 million man-days.

Key Points: Gujarat's Sujalam Sufalam Jal Abhiyan Starts Feb 21

  • Campaign starts Feb 21, earlier than past years
  • Aims to deepen lakes for monsoon storage
  • Part of 8-year state water conservation effort
  • Has created over 26 million man-days of employment
2 min read

Gujarat advances launch of annual 'Sujalam Sufalam Jal Abhiyan'; set to begin from Feb 21

Gujarat advances its annual water conservation drive to Feb 21 to accelerate storage works before monsoon, enhancing state water security.

"To ensure that water conservation works are completed swiftly before the monsoon, the Chief Minister has directed that the Sujalam Sufalam Jal Abhiyan begin from February. - Minister Jitu Vaghani"

Gandhinagar, Feb 4

The Gujarat government said on Wednesday that it will launch its annual water conservation campaign, the Sujalam Sufalam Jal Abhiyan, from February 21, starting earlier than in previous years.

The decision aims to accelerate water storage works ahead of the monsoon and strengthen the state's preparedness for the rainy season.

The announcement came after a state Cabinet meeting chaired by Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel in Gandhinagar.

Speaking to the media, state government Spokesperson and Minister Jitu Vaghani said, "To ensure that water conservation works are completed swiftly before the monsoon, the Chief Minister has directed that the Sujalam Sufalam Jal Abhiyan begin from February. Accordingly, the campaign will commence across the state from February 21."

Minister Vaghani noted that the campaign forms part of a sustained effort by the state government over the past eight years to enhance water availability through coordinated action by multiple departments.

"Under the Chief Minister's guidance, the state government has been undertaking this campaign annually. It is aligned with broader national initiatives launched by Prime Minister Narendra Modi to conserve water and improve storage," he said.

A key focus of this year's drive will be the early deepening of lakes to ensure water can be stored even if the monsoon arrives sooner than expected.

The timing has also been planned around the Holi festival, which falls on March 3, as many labourers travel to their native places during this period.

"Starting the campaign early will help avoid delays in the execution of development works," Minister Vaghani added.

Over the past eight years, the "Sujalam Sufalam Jal Abhiyan" has made a significant impact.

Between 2018 and 2025, the campaign has helped store nearly 13,994 million cubic feet of water across Gujarat.

In addition, it has provided employment opportunities worth more than 26 million man-days to labourers involved in the project, supporting both livelihoods and community water security.

With the early launch of this year's campaign, the state government aims to further strengthen water storage infrastructure and ensure adequate supply for both rural and urban areas before the onset of the monsoon.

- IANS

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Reader Comments

P
Priya S
Good to see planning around Holi. Many migrant workers do go home, so starting in Feb gives a solid window for work. The employment numbers are impressive - 26 million man-days is no small thing. Hope the execution on ground is as smooth as the plan.
V
Vikram M
While the intent is good, I hope the focus is on sustainable recharging and not just deepening lakes. In some areas, unchecked deepening has affected soil stability. The government must ensure technical oversight and community consultation.
S
Sarah B
As someone who has worked on water projects in India, this coordinated, annual approach is key. 13,994 million cubic feet is a massive achievement. Early start shows they are learning and adapting, which is crucial for climate resilience.
R
Rohit P
Bhai, water is everything. In Gujarat, we know the value of every drop. This Abhiyan has become a part of our yearly calendar now. Hope they also include cleaning of existing ponds and check dams this time.
K
Kavya N
The dual benefit of water security and employment is what makes this a model scheme. Providing work close to Holi will help many families. More states should adopt such proactive, pre-monsoon water management plans.

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