Why did Maharashtra win the National Water Award for Best State?

Maharashtra won for its outstanding water governance, driven by extensive infrastructure, conservation efforts, and community engagement.

What is the Watershed Organisation Trust (WOTR)?

WOTR is an organization that assesses water governance aspects and applied its Water Governance Standard (WGS) Toolkit to evaluate villages.

What are some key water policies in Maharashtra?

Key policies include the Maharashtra Water Resource Regulatory Authority Act, 2005, and the Maharashtra Groundwater Act.

Home / Environment / Maharashtra Dazzles: Wins Top National Water Award

Maharashtra Dazzles: Wins Top National Water Award

19 Nov, 2025

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Summary

Maharashtra secured first prize for Best State at the 6th National Water Awards.
WOTR experts noted Maharashtra's superior water governance compared to other states.
State's success stems from infrastructure, policy, and community engagement.

Maharashtra Dazzles: Wins Top National Water Award

Maharashtra has achieved the top honor, securing the first prize for Best State at the recently concluded 6th National Water Awards. The recognition underscores the state's exemplary performance in water resource management and governance, as acknowledged by water experts and stakeholders.

The award ceremony, presided over by President Doupadi Murmu, highlighted Maharashtra's comprehensive approach. This includes substantial investments in irrigation projects, widespread implementation of soil and water conservation measures like watershed development, and proactive community mobilization. Experts from the Watershed Organisation Trust (WOTR) pointed to Maharashtra's success, even with less rainfall and a commercial cropping pattern compared to other states.