New Delhi, Nov. 18 -- President Droupadi Murmu on Tuesday presented the sixth National Water Awards and Jal Sanchay-Jan Bhagidari Awards at a function held in New Delhi, according to the President's Secretariat release.

Speaking on the occasion, the President said that the story of human civilisation is the story of groups settling in river valleys, along seashores, and around various water sources. In our tradition, rivers, lakes, and other water sources are revered. In our national song, the first word that Bankim Chandra Chatterjee wrote is 'Sujalam'.

This means "blessed with abundant water resources." This fact highlights the country's priority for water.

According to the release, the President stated that efficient water use is a ...