The National Mission for Clean Ganga (NMCG) marked a remarkable and multifaceted celebration of Ganga Utsav 2024 at the scenic Chandi Ghat in Haridwar, drawing a massive crowd of over 10,000 attendees and capturing an additional 8,000 viewers online. This year’s Utsav also extended its reach nationwide, with celebrations across 137 District Ganga Committees (DGCs), each amplifying the message of Ganga conservation and cultural heritage.
Hon’ble Jal Shakti Minister's Address and Key Highlights
Hon’ble Jal Shakti Minister Shri C.R. Patil shared a powerful message from Prime Minister Narendra Modi, highlighting Ganga’s essential role in the lives of over 600 million Indians and venerating the river as a selfless "mother" to the nation. He emphasized the deep cultural tradition of respecting rivers as maternal entities, remarking, “Ganga sustains us selflessly, offering life-giving water to all.” Shri Patil highlighted PM Modi’s continuous commitment to Ganga's preservation, tracing back to the Prime Minister’s resolve from his first day in office: “Mother Ganga has called me.”
He also inaugurated the Ganga Mahila Rafting Expedition, an all-women-led journey by the BSF from Gangotri to Ganga Sagar, designed to engage local communities and empower women in environmental stewardship. The Minister praised the public’s involvement in PM Modi's “Jal Sanchay” initiative and honored the BSF team, whose 50-day expedition is a testament to collective efforts for Ganga’s conservation.
Address by Hon’ble Minister of State, Jal Shakti
Shri Raj Bhushan Choudhary, Hon’ble Minister of State for Jal Shakti, stressed that rivers are not merely sources of water but are intrinsically tied to India’s spiritual, cultural, and historical heritage. He shared insights into Namami Gange projects in Bihar, with 7,144 crore INR allocated to 39 key projects aimed at rejuvenating the Ganga and its tributaries. Highlighting the Niranjana River Recharge Mission, he underscored the government’s dedication to preserving Bihar’s historical rivers and revitalizing its natural ecosystems.
Technical, Kids Zone, and Environmental Initiatives
In addition to spiritual and cultural sessions, the Utsav featured technical discussions on Urban River Management and Treated Water Reuse in partnership with NIUA and TERI, showcasing sustainable water management solutions. The Kids Zone offered pottery, storytelling, and an exclusive Ganga library by the National Book Trust, fostering an appreciation for Ganga’s legacy among young attendees.
A fish ranching initiative in partnership with ICAR-CIFRI saw the release of over 6,000 Mahseer fingerlings into the Ganga, led by Shri Patil. This activity highlighted efforts to restore biodiversity along the Himalayan stretch and underscored the critical role of community-driven conservation.
Cultural Performances and Iconic Stage Program
The stage program, including a symbolic Jal Kalash ritual, featured powerful speeches by Shri Patil and other dignitaries, underscoring Ganga's cultural and ecological significance. A teaser launch for Rag Rag Mein Ganga Season 3 by host Rajiv Khandelwal, an address by Smt. Rekha Arya, and an electrifying recitation of Taandav Stotram by Ashutosh Rana captivated the audience. Screenings of films on Ganga conservation added visual depth, while the Ganga Samvad session with spiritual leaders urged collective action to preserve the river.
Exhibitors Pavilion and Grand Finale
An Exhibitors Pavilion showcased projects by NMCG and partners, demonstrating practical innovations in pollution control, river restoration, and community engagement. As the evening unfolded, a serene Ganga Aarti brought a sacred close to the day, followed by an impressive Light and Sound Show illustrating Ganga’s journey through India’s history and its role in modern life.
Ganga Utsav 2024 embodied the spirit of unity, heritage, and commitment to preserving India’s most revered river, inspiring everyone to cherish and conserve the Ganga for future generations.