Implementation Of Maha Water Mission

Key Highlights:

• The Anusandhan National Research Foundation (ANRF), a statutory body, was established under the ANRF Act, 2023.
• Mission for Advancement in High-impact Areas (MAHA) is a program under ANRF for priority-centric, solution-based research.
• The MAHA Water program, launched on 01.06.2026, is a joint initiative of ANRF and the Ministry of Jal Shakti.
• It aims to support mission-oriented, solution-based research to address key water challenges.

Detailed Insights:

• ANRF provides high-level strategic direction for research, innovation, and entrepreneurship, aligning with the National Education Policy.
• The MAHA Water program focuses on five thematic areas including Water Resource Assessment, Drinking Water, Water Quality, Water Use Efficiency, and Climate Resilience.
• Proposals are invited in a consortium mode involving academia, research organizations, and DSIR-SIRO-registered research organisations.
• Mandatory participation by at least one Start-up/MSME/Industry partner is required, contributing 10% of the total project cost.
• The Bharat WIN Portal has been operationalized to facilitate Start-up/MSME participation and deployment of innovative water technologies.
• The Jal Shakti Hackathon–2025 was organized to encourage practical and scalable technologies for the water sector.
• Results from water sector R&D are shared with stakeholders like States, UTs, and partner ministries for adoption.

Key Concepts Involved:

• Anusandhan National Research Foundation (ANRF): A statutory body established under the ANRF Act, 2023, to fund and promote research in India.
• Mission for Advancement in High-impact Areas (MAHA): A program under ANRF supporting priority-centric, solution-based research in key national requirement areas.
• DSIR-SIRO-registered research organisations: Scientific and Industrial Research Organisations recognized by the Department of Scientific and Industrial Research.
• Section 8 companies: Non-profit companies registered under the Companies Act, 2013, for promoting arts, science, commerce, etc.