Vijayawada: For demonstrating outstanding performance in water conservation initiatives, Sri Potti Sriramulu Nellore district has been selected for the prestigious “Jal Sanchay Jan Bhagidari 1.0” National Award. The award will be presented by President Droupadi Murmu to district collector Himanshu Shukla at a ceremony in New Delhi on Nov 18.Speaking on the achievement, district collector Himanshu Shukla said the award recognises the collective efforts of officials, field staff, and local communities in making water conservation a people’s movement. DWMA project director Gangabhavani explained that the district implemented a wide range of water conservation works under the MGNREGS scheme during the financial year 2024–25. These include 856 farm ponds, 3,495 percolation tanks, 112 feeder tanks, 166 check dams, 512 dugout ponds/water harvesting ponds, 54 rooftop water harvesting structures, 12 ring trenches, 34 boundary trenches, 14 storage pits, and desilting works in 247 tanks — totaling 5,502 groundwater recharge activities that led to this national recognition.The DWMA team met the district collector at his office and felicitated him. Gangabhavani said that “Jal Sanchay Jan Bhagidari” represents a collective effort by the government machinery and the people to save every drop of water and ensure water security for future generations. Through this initiative, the district succeeded in promoting rainwater harvesting, groundwater recharge, and public awareness about the importance of water conservation. She added that they will continue the mission with the same zeal under the guidance of Collector Himanshu Shukla.
