Women in India are crucial for water governance

Women play a crucial role in managing and protecting water resources worldwide. Since the 1992 Rio Earth Summit, this has been recognized, but in India, their contributions are often overlooked. Women, especially in rural and marginalized areas, are the primary collectors and managers of water for their communities. However, they are rarely included in decision-making processes related to water governance. Water scarcity is a pressing issue in India, with two-thirds of districts facing severe depletion. This situation impacts women the most. They spend about 150 million workdays each year just fetching water. This time away can affect their education and overall quality of life. Long journeys for water can also expose them to risks and limit their ability to earn income or engage in other important activities. Women are key to ensuring health and hygiene in their households. Their insights are vital for effective water governance, but their absence in leadership roles means important perspectives are missed. Engaging women in decision-making can enhance their confidence and improve water access for their communities. The demand for water is projected to increase significantly by 2050, making women's empowerment even more crucial. Success stories from villages in Rajasthan highlight the positive impact of women in water governance. Women have worked on projects to improve water supply and change agricultural practices to conserve water. In one case, a community member helped rebuild toilets to improve sanitation after engaging in a social awareness campaign. Such initiatives show how women can lead change within their communities. Research supports the idea that involving women in water management leads to better outcomes. For example, projects with women's involvement can be six to seven times more effective. To leverage this potential, it is essential to invest in training and education for women and ensure they are included in decision-making bodies. Empowering women in water governance is not just about fairness; it is essential for sustainable water management in India. By recognizing and supporting the traditional roles of women as water stewards, communities can effectively address water scarcity for generations to come.