Traditional Indian Water Practices Spotlighted at Water Week Opening

During the inauguration of the 9th India International Water Week 2026, Vice President C.P. Radhakrishnan drew attention to India's age‑old water‑conservation traditions. He explained that Indian communities have, for centuries, refined methods for water sharing, storage and management that remain relevant in today's climate crisis.

The Vice President recalled personal memories of water scarcity in Tamil Nadu and the community‑driven initiatives he witnessed as a child. He linked those experiences to the historic chariot journey across the state, which aimed to raise awareness about linking rivers and safeguarding water sources.

Radhakrishnan argued that the wisdom embedded in traditional practices—such as step‑wells, rainwater harvesting tanks and the communal management of river flows—offers valuable lessons for modern policy.

He urged policymakers to blend this indigenous knowledge with contemporary science, creating a hybrid model that improves water efficiency, promotes reuse and strengthens resilience against floods and droughts.