Context: Union Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh and Jal Shakti Minister launched the ₹200-crore MAHA Water Mission, to accelerate innovation in the water sector.
About MAHA Water Mission:
What It Is?
- The MAHA (Missions for Advancement in High-impact Areas) Water Mission is a high-priority national program designed to bridge the gap between fundamental research and field deployment. It serves as an integrated pathway for technology development, validation, and commercialization of high-impact water solutions.
Organisations Involved:
The mission is a collaborative effort between:
- Anusandhan National Research Foundation (ANRF): The primary body for democratizing and streamlining research funding in India.
- Ministry of Jal Shakti: The nodal ministry for water resources, river development, and Ganga rejuvenation.
- Department of Space/ISRO: Providing satellite technologies and geospatial data for water mapping and assessment.
Key Features:
- Financial Support: A projected outlay of ₹200 crore over five years. Selected multidisciplinary consortia can receive grants of up to ₹20 crore.
- Multidisciplinary Consortia: Participation is open to a mix of universities, national laboratories, research organizations, Startups, MSMEs, and industry partners.
- Open Call for Proposals: The mission features a dedicated Open Call for Startups and MSMEs specifically for Product and Prototype Development.
- Five Priority Themes:
- Water Resource Assessment and Sustainable Management.
- Drinking Water (Quality and Access).
- Water Quality and Ecological Health.
- Water Use Efficiency and Circular Economy.
- Climate Resilience and Adaptation.
- Digital Integration: Complemented by the launch of the Jal Sanchay Jan Bhagidari, Citizen Tracking and Reporting (JSJB-CTR) Portal and App for real-time monitoring and public participation.
Significance:
- Extends funding beyond premier institutions to universities, startups, and young researchers, promoting innovation across the country.
- Uses ISRO’s satellite data for groundwater mapping and irrigation planning, supporting scientific and climate-resilient water management.
