Statement by India under Agenda Item 3: Interactive Dialogue with Special Rapporteur on the human rights to safe drinking water and sanitation, at the 54th Session of Human Rights Council (11 September - 13 October 2023)   delivered by Mr. Mohammed Hussain K.S., First Secretary, Permanent Mission of India, Geneva, 14 September 2023

Thank you, Mr. President.

We thank the SR for presentation of his report and take note of its recommendations. Lack of sustainable use and management of water adversely impacts the access to safe and clean drinking water and sanitation, especially of the most vulnerable.

The Government of India accords top priority to ensuring access to drinking water and sanitation for every citizen. It recognizes the significance of protecting the environment for sustainable development and has enacted various laws and regulations in this regard.

Adverse effects of groundwater pollution can be addressed to a large extent if safe water is made available to public. India has been implementing the “Water is Life Mission”to provide potable tap water supply of prescribed quality to every rural household in India by 2024.The number of rural households with tap water connections has increased from about 17% in August 2019 to 68% as on date.

The Central Pollution Control Board is implementing the provisions of the Water (Prevention & Control) Act and the Environment (Protection) Act to prevent and control water pollution. It has developed industry specific standards and general standards for discharge of effluents. Monsoon rainfall is being harvested through creation of artificial recharge structures, watershed management, intensive afforestation and awareness generation.

The challenges of pollution in rivers are being addressed through comprehensive interventions such as wastewater treatment, solid waste management, river front management, and biodiversity conservation.

I thank you.