March 6, 2026 marked a significant milestone for Swami Rama Himalayan University (SRHU), Dehradun and its promoting society Himalayan Institute Hospital Trust (HIHT), as their sustained contributions in the fields of water supply, water conservation, sanitation, environment and sustainability received international recognition. On this occasion, the University was conferred with the prestigious Water Transversality Global Award 2026 under the Rainwater Harvesting and Groundwater Management category, reaffirming its commitment to sustainable water resource management. The award was presented by the India Water Foundation at a high-level international conclave held at the India International Centre, New Delhi. The ceremony was part of the Water Transversality Global Awards & Conclave 2026, organized alongside the International Conference on “ESG Transversality for a Sustainable Water–Energy–Health & Environment Nexus.” The event, supported by various United Nations agencies, NITI Aayog and multiple Ministries of the Government of India, brought together policymakers, researchers, academicians and development practitioners from across the globe.
The honour was conferred by Shri Om Birla, Hon’ble Speaker of Lok Sabha, adding national significance to the recognition. Addressing the gathering, he emphasized that development and environment should not be viewed as opposing forces but as complementary pillars of sustainable progress. He underscored the importance of adopting the principle of “Reduce, Reuse, Recharge and Recycle” for effective water conservation. He further highlighted that renewable energy and green initiatives are strengthening India’s climate commitments and that the country’s progress in solar, wind and green hydrogen sectors is playing a crucial role in advancing sustainable development.
At the core of this achievement are the coordinated and result-oriented efforts of the University’s Rural Development Institute, particularly the Water and Sanitation (WATSAN) Department and the Infrastructure Development Department. SRHU has developed innovative, practical and sustainable models in rainwater harvesting, groundwater recharge, water quality monitoring and community-based water management, delivering tangible benefits to local communities. According to Dr. Vijay Dhasmana, Hon’ble President of SRHU, the institution has been consistently working for nearly 28 years, especially in remote and mountainous regions, to strengthen water supply and conservation systems. During this period, impactful interventions related to water, sanitation, environment and sustainability have been implemented in more than 600 villages across Uttarakhand. Additionally, similar initiatives have been expanded across 31 states and union territories of India along with Nepal & Bhutan. In the ecologically fragile Himalayan region, the University has adopted a context-specific and community-driven approach, focusing on spring rejuvenation, protection of water sources, water quality testing and strengthening grassroots institutions. These efforts have not only improved water availability but have also enhanced community awareness and participation in water conservation. On behalf of the University, the award was received by Mr. Nitesh Kaushik, Deputy Director (WATSAN) & Sustainability Officer, Mr. Girish Uniyal, Head (E&M), Infrastructure Development Department and Mr. Lakhpat Bisht, Coordinator (WATSAN). This achievement reflects the institution’s strong technical expertise, collaborative approach and commitment to effective on-ground implementation.
At a time when water scarcity is emerging as a critical global challenge, the efforts of Swami Rama Himalayan University demonstrate how academic institutions can play a transformative role through research, innovation and community engagement. This recognition not only marks a moment of pride but also serves as a catalyst for further advancing water security, environmental sustainability and resilient development pathways.
