3rd Conference on Water Neutrality

“Collective Action for a Water Neutral Industry by 2030”

26 February 2026, Tamarind Hall, India Habitat Centre, New Delhi


Water scarcity has been intensifying globally over the past few decades, with developing countries being particularly affected. According to estimates presented at the UN COP26 Climate Conference, there is expected to be a 40% shortfall in freshwater resources by 2030. This underscores the urgent need for a holistic approach to water resource management - one that goes beyond operational efficiency to achieve long-term sustainability.

In this context, CII Water Institute organized the 3rd edition of the Conference on Water Neutrality on 26th February 2026, in New Delhi. The theme of the conference was “Collective Action for a Water Neutral Industry by 2030”.

The aim for the conference was to provide valuable insights into the roadmap for achieving water neutrality by highlighting effective tools, techniques, and innovative technologies, while addressing critical environmental challenges related to water sustainability.

The Conference focused on:

  • Water Neutrality: A pathway towards enabling Decarbonization & Energy Transition
  • Industry Good Practices towards Water Sustainability
  • Aligning with disclosure frameworks: ESG, BRSR, CDP
  • Moving from Intent to Impact

“Voluntary action by industry today will shape India’s water landscape tomorrow. Collaboration and innovation must be our shared pathway forward.”

Mr Sumant Narain
Joint Secretary
National Water Mission
Ministry of Jal Shakti

“Industry must lead the shift toward smarter water management-through strict audits, sector specific efficiency upgrades, and technologies that minimize losses across storage, distribution and application.”
Mr Ashish Banerjee
Chief Engineer
Irrigation Management Organization
Central Water Commission