India is grappling with a severe water crisis, losing 40 per cent of its water due to leaks, which threatens its economic progress. According to a report by Niti Aayog, India is facing the worst water crisis in its history, with nearly 600 million people experiencing high to extreme water stress. Additionally, India ranks 120 out of 122 countries in the water quality index, with approximately 70 per cent of its water contaminated.

In response to this crisis, the Maharashtra government has partnered with Schneider Electric to modernise water and wastewater management using advanced digital technologies. This strategic collaboration aims to promote awareness among stakeholders and encourage the adoption of innovative digital solutions to enhance efficiency, productivity, and sustainability in water management.

Sanjay Belsare, IAS, Secretary-CAD, Water Resources Department, Government of Maharashtra, highlighted the importance of integrating digital solutions into water management practices. He said, “Integrating digital solutions into water management practices can lead to more efficient, resilient, and sustainable use of water as well as energy resources, thereby addressing the growing challenges posed by factors such as population growth, urbanisation, and climate change”

During a keynote address, Aman Mittal, IAS, Deputy Secretary, Water Supply & Sanitation Department, Government of Maharashtra, stressed the need for mass awareness about the potential of digital technologies in addressing water resource issues. These technologies include data analytics, IoT sensors, remote monitoring systems, and predictive modelling algorithms. AI and machine learning can analyse water-related data to improve distribution, predict droughts or floods, and make better management decisions. Drone images and remote sensing can help map traditional water bodies, assess their health, and identify replenishment or restoration needs. Additionally, chatbots can serve as virtual water conservation aides, offering personalised advice and raising awareness about the judicious use of water and resources.

Arvind Kakru, Vice President – Industrial Automation, Greater India at Schneider Electric, emphasised the critical role of water conservation in India’s development. He noted that water conservation directly translates to energy conservation and securing the future. Schneider Electric’s collaboration with the Water Resources Department, Maharashtra, aims to engage stakeholders in creating a circular system for efficient energy and water management. The partnership seeks to maximise the value of every drop, drive innovation to combat wastage, and pave the way for a more sustainable future.

Furthermore, Schneider Electric has teamed up with the Ministry of Jal Shakti to develop a skill development program that empowers eco-warriors with next-gen technology. The curriculum focuses on technologies in water governance, efficient operations, management of water and wastewater treatment plants, and sustainable water management. technology for water conservation, and efficient desalination processes using digital technologies.

This partnership and the deployment of advanced digital solutions mark a significant step towards Government efforts to address India’s water crisis and ensure a sustainable future for its water resources.