Indian government’s Union Cabinet, chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, has approved a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) for technical cooperation in urban water management.
The cabinet was apprised the MoU between the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs (MoHUA), Government of India, and Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT), Government of Australia.
This MoU, titled or Technical Cooperation for Australia-India Water Security Initiative (AIWASI), has been signed in December, 2021.
As per press release, this MoU would reinforce bilateral cooperation between the two countries in the area of urban water security.
Australia’s High Commissioner to India, the Hon. Barry O’Farrell has welcomed this approval. He tweeted: “This partnership will contribute to India’s AMRUT2.0 mission & reinforce close collaboration between Australia and India towards achieving a #watersecure future.”
Further, it would strengthen institutional capacities at all levels for urban water management. The MoU would also help:
- improve accessibility, affordability & quality of water and sanitation services;
- promote circular economy of water & water secure cities;
- encourage climate resilient water management practices;
- enhance community participation in water management; and
- improve social inclusion through initiatives for accessible infrastructure.
MoU will enable both India and Australia to learn about technological advancements gained by two nations in key areas of urban water security.
The two governments believe that this MoU will promote exchange of learning, best practices and capacity building of institutions.