The 9th edition of Ganga Utsav 2025 is being celebrated across India under the leadership of the National Mission for Clean Ganga (NMCG), functioning under the Department of Water Resources, River Development and Ganga Rejuvenation, Ministry of Jal Shakti. The annual event unites people, policymakers, researchers, and students in honour of Maa Ganga, reflecting India’s shared devotion and collective responsibility toward its rivers.
This year’s Utsav focuses on partnership and participation, bringing together communities, institutions, and experts to discuss emerging issues, share innovations, and celebrate the cultural and ecological significance of the Ganga River.
Main Celebration at Ayodhya
The central event is held at Dr. Ram Manohar Lohia Avadh University, Ayodhya, drawing an enthusiastic gathering of students, officials, and Ganga volunteers. Shri V. L. Kantha Rao, Secretary, Ministry of Jal Shakti, graces the occasion as the chief guest, emphasizing that one-third of the Ministry’s efforts are dedicated to the Ganga’s rejuvenation.
He notes that the Ganga basin covers 11 states, nearly 100 major cities, and 150 districts, supporting nearly half of India’s population and economy. Highlighting the 10,000 rivers connected to the Ganga system, he stresses the importance of coordinated inter-departmental efforts and community-driven initiatives such as the Ganga Praharis to ensure that all drains entering the river are treated effectively.
The event includes cultural performances, interactive sessions with Ganga Praharis, and presentations on Ayodhya’s Urban River Management Plan and the rejuvenation of smaller rivers. The release of two important reports—Status of Waterbirds in the Ganga River Basin and Status of Island Nesting Report—provides valuable data for ecological conservation.
Youth-Led Innovation at Amity University, Noida
At Amity School of Engineering and Technology, the Utsav unfolds under the theme “Voices and Rhythms of River: Technical and Cultural Expressions.” Senior NMCG officials encourage students to participate in the Riverathon, an initiative promoting innovative, data-driven solutions for river rejuvenation.
The celebration features the release of key resources including:
- Preventing Solid Waste Flow into Water: A Comprehensive Guide to Analysis and Reporting
- The Colors of Ganga – A Children’s Art Tribute
- LiDAR Data Release for Riverathon 1.0 Participants
A cultural programme titled “Rhythms of River” showcases India’s rich artistic connection with its waterways.
Scientific Exchange at IIT (BHU), Varanasi
Adding a strong research dimension, the RHAR 2025 Conference at IIT (BHU), Varanasi focuses on River Health Assessment and Rejuvenation. Experts, academicians, and policymakers discuss strategies for integrated river restoration and sustainable management.
Shri Anup Kumar Srivastava, Executive Director (Technical), chairs a session on Groundwater Management for Small River Rejuvenation, highlighting innovative groundwater–surface water linkages and the importance of scientific data. The conference also marks the launch of a book on emerging contaminants and features an exhibition of photographs, models, and student research projects on river conservation.
A Unified National Effort
From Ayodhya to Noida to Varanasi, Ganga Utsav 2025 symbolizes India’s deep connection with its rivers—combining cultural devotion with modern science and technology. The celebration continues to inspire collective responsibility for reviving and sustaining the lifeline of India—River Ganga.
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