Patna: Bihar is set to receive the first prize from the Union government for its work in the country’s first-ever Spring Census, after identifying dozens of previously undocumented natural hill springs across several districts of the state.
According to officials, Bihar has discovered 69 hill springs whose origins remain unknown. Unlike conventional water sources that emerge from identifiable streams or rivers, these springs form natural water reservoirs without a clearly traceable source. Many of them function like small waterfalls and provide water that is even used for irrigation in nearby areas.
These springs were earlier either little known or absent from official government records. Their identification came during the first Spring Census conducted by the Government of India.
In recognition of this work, Bihar will receive the top award from the Union Ministry of Jal Shakti on March 22, observed globally as World Water Day. Planning Secretary of the Bihar government, N. Vijayalakshmi, will receive the award on behalf of the state.
Officials said the newly identified springs are located in districts including Nawada, Kaimur, Jamui, Sheikhpura and Rohtas. Several of these springs provide water throughout the year and support irrigation activities in surrounding regions.
With both the central and state governments now identifying and documenting these springs, officials believe there is significant potential for their development and better utilisation. Authorities also see opportunities to promote eco-tourism around some of these natural water sources.
The Union government has recently completed the Seventh Minor Irrigation Census, the Second Census of Water Bodies, and the enumeration of major and medium water projects. Bihar has been appreciated for its performance in these initiatives as well, and the state may receive additional recognitions from the Ministry of Jal Shakti.
Officials also highlighted that the state has undertaken several water conservation initiatives in recent years under the Jal-Jeevan-Hariyali campaign, including projects aimed at developing and preserving water bodies across Bihar.
