PM Modi Praises Nationwide Engagement in 'Catch The Rain' Campaign

New Delhi, India Jul 26, 2026 ALN: Prime Minister Narendra Modi, while addressing the latest edition of his monthly radio programme ‘Mann Ki Baat’ on Sunday, lauded the growing public participation in the ‘Catch The Rain’ campaign and highlighted the nationwide efforts being made to conserve rainwater, revive traditional water bodies, and strengthen groundwater resources. This campaign is particularly significant in India, a country that faces severe water scarcity issues in many regions, making effective water management an urgent priority.

Water scarcity has been a pressing issue in India for decades, exacerbated by factors such as rapid urbanization, population growth, and climate change. Traditional water bodies, which once played a crucial role in managing water resources, have been neglected over the years. PM Modi's emphasis on reviving these water bodies reflects a broader recognition of the need to restore traditional practices that can effectively manage local water resources.

Recalling his appeal from the previous edition of the programme, the Prime Minister said the campaign has gathered momentum across the country, with people from villages and cities actively contributing to water conservation initiatives. The ‘Catch The Rain’ campaign aims to raise awareness about the importance of rainwater harvesting, a practice that involves collecting and storing rainwater for reuse before it reaches the ground. This method is particularly effective in regions where rainfall is seasonal and can significantly mitigate the impact of water shortages.

“In the previous episode of ‘Mann Ki Baat’, I spoke to you about the ‘Catch The Rain’ campaign. I had appealed that this campaign to conserve every drop of rain be turned into a mass movement. The message of ‘Catch The Rain’ is very simple: conserve the water right where and when the rain falls. That is why a special nationwide campaign has been underway since July 4. Under this initiative, fresh momentum is being given to rainwater harvesting, groundwater recharge, the rejuvenation of old water bodies, and tree plantation,” PM Modi said. This multifaceted approach not only addresses immediate water needs but also promotes environmental sustainability through tree planting, which can enhance local ecosystems.

He expressed satisfaction over the enthusiastic response received from citizens, local bodies, and community organisations, saying the campaign has witnessed widespread participation across different parts of the country. The involvement of local bodies and community organizations is critical in such campaigns, as they often have a better understanding of local needs and can mobilize resources effectively.

“I am delighted to see overwhelming participation from people everywhere — be it villages or cities, panchayats or social organisations. At some places, silt is being removed from old ponds, while at others, wells and stepwells are being revived. Borewells no longer in use are now serving as channels for groundwater recharge,” he added. This revival of old water management systems not only helps in conserving water but also fosters a sense of community ownership and responsibility towards local resources.

Highlighting examples from several states, the Prime Minister said large-scale water conservation work has already produced encouraging results. He noted that nearly 1,500 ponds have been built in Madhya Pradesh’s Sidhi district, ‘Amrit Sarovars’ have been restored in Narsinghpur, and Maharashtra’s Nashik has significantly enhanced its water storage capacity through the campaign. These efforts are indicative of a larger trend where states are beginning to prioritize water conservation and management as part of their development agendas.

He also pointed to Andhra Pradesh’s Nandyal district, where every gram panchayat joined the initiative and old ponds were revived to restore their utility. Such grassroots involvement is crucial for the success of the campaign, as it ensures that the solutions are tailored to local conditions and that the community is actively engaged in the process.

“Our cities as well are not lagging behind either; encouraging results from this campaign are visible in Korba (Chhattisgarh), Bhubaneswar (Odisha), and Vizianagaram (Andhra Pradesh),” PM Modi said. Urban areas, which often face acute water shortages, are benefiting from the campaign as well. The integration of rainwater harvesting systems in urban planning can lead to more sustainable cities that can better manage their water resources.

Urging people to continue contributing to water conservation efforts, the Prime Minister appealed to citizens to take responsibility for preserving water bodies in their neighbourhoods, stressing that every drop of water saved today would benefit future generations. This call to action reflects a growing recognition of the need for collective responsibility in managing water resources, especially in the face of climate change and increasing water demand.

“Come, let us also take responsibility for a pond, well, or stepwell in our vicinity — save every drop of water. Every drop saved today serves as the greatest asset for the future of coming generations,” he added. This message resonates with the broader theme of sustainable development, where the focus is not only on meeting current needs but also on ensuring that future generations have access to the resources they need to thrive.

The implications of the ‘Catch The Rain’ campaign extend beyond immediate water conservation efforts. By promoting community involvement and traditional water management practices, the campaign fosters a sense of environmental stewardship among citizens. Moreover, it highlights the importance of integrating water conservation into the broader framework of sustainable development, which is essential for addressing the multifaceted challenges posed by climate change and population growth.

In conclusion, PM Modi's address underscores the significance of collective action in addressing water scarcity in India. The ‘Catch The Rain’ campaign serves as a reminder of the importance of conserving natural resources and the role that individuals and communities can play in this effort. As the country continues to grapple with water-related challenges, initiatives like these are crucial in promoting sustainable practices that can help secure water resources for future generations.