Aravali Power bags top prize at National Water Awards

Aravali Power Company Private Limited (APCPL), located in Jhajjar, Haryana, has secured the top prize in the industry segment at the fifth edition of the National Water Awards. President Droupadi Murmu presented the awards during a ceremony in New Delhi on Tuesday, recognising exemplary contributions to water conservation and management.

The SM Sehgal Foundation, based in Gurugram, also received a special mention in the civil society category for its efforts in water conservation.

Odisha emerged as the top-performing state in water conservation, followed by Uttar Pradesh in second place, while Puducherry and Gujarat shared the third position. In total, 38 winners, including joint winners across nine categories, were honoured for their significant work in water management. Awardees received a citation, trophy, and cash prizes in certain categories.

The event commenced with the traditional 'Jal Kalash' ceremony. During her address, President Murmu praised the Ministry of Jal Shakti's initiatives, particularly the Jal Jeevan Mission, which emphasises quantity, quality, and continuity in water supply. She underscored that access to safe drinking water is a fundamental right of every citizen, stressing the need for collective efforts between the public and the government to achieve a "water-secure India." The President also advocated for every household in the country to have a Rain Water Harvesting Structure (RWHS).

Union Minister for Jal Shakti CR Patil expressed gratitude to the awardees for their significant contributions to water management and conservation. He noted that the National Water Awards have fostered healthy competition in the water sector, driving meaningful progress.

APCPL, which won the first prize among industries, is a joint venture with a 50% stake held by NTPC Ltd, 25% by Haryana Power Generation Company Ltd (HPGCL), and 25% by Indraprastha Power Generation Company Ltd (IPGCL). Established on December 21, 2006, APCPL operates the Indira Gandhi Super Thermal Power Project (IGSTPP), a coal-based power plant near Jharli village, Jhajjar.