The National Mission for Clean Ganga (NMCG) celebrated Ganga Utsav 2021 - The River Festival from November 1-3, 2021. Part of the Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav commemorating 75 years of Indian independence, the event spanned 150 districts across the country, engaging diverse communities to honor India’s rivers.
The Utsav featured activities at central, state, and district levels, both physically and virtually. Its main objectives were to celebrate India’s rivers, raise awareness about river rejuvenation, and encourage public participation, reflecting Prime Minister Narendra Modi's vision for sustainable river management.
Congratulating NMCG for their contribution to Azadi ka Amrit Mahotsav in his keynote address Shri. Kiren Rijiju, Hon’ble Minister for Law & Justice said, “I have travelled to almost origin of every river in the country. Ganga especially looked very polluted few years back but today, it looks cleaner and magnanimous. The work is inspiring and I pledge my full support to the mission and would always be happy to join and contribute.” He attributed to this success to Hon’ble Prime Minister’s vision, NMCG’s holistic approach and volunteer’s hard work.
Shri Gajendra Singh Shekhawat,Jal Shakti Minister recalling Hon’ble Prime Minister’s call for celebrating Nadi Utsav said, “India has a tradition of reverence for rivers but with rise of consumerism this connect was lost somewhere” in his valedictory Address at Ganga Utsav 2021. “Nadi Utsav will sow the seed for reviving this tradition of respecting rivers. This will encourage people to conserve and protect our rivers.” he added. He complimented Namami Gange for "laying the foundation of Nadi Utsav through successful conduct of Ganga Utsavs over last few years and the Ganga Utsav this year has laid foundation for strong Nadi Utsav in country".
Key Highlights of Ganga Utsav 2021
1. Focus on Arth Ganga: The event centered on the Arth Ganga model, which emphasizes economic opportunities related to the river. Six pillars—Zero Budget Natural Farming, Sludge Reuse, Livelihood Generation, Public Participation, Cultural Heritage & Tourism, and Institutional Building—provided a structure for various initiatives, including natural farming workshops and the “Ghat Pe Haat” initiative.
2. Community Participation:District Ganga Committees (DGCs) led local activities, strengthening connections between communities and rivers. The festival fostered a mass movement for river conservation, engaging grassroots organizations, volunteers, and district administrators.
3. Cultural Engagement: New Delhi’s Major Dhyan Chand Stadium hosted cultural performances, including dance and music by renowned artists, storytelling, puppet shows, film screenings, and traditional arts workshops. A mini food festival with stalls from Uttarakhand, Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, and West Bengal showcased local flavors, while children’s activities promoted environmental awareness.
4. Felicitations and Recognition: Key contributors to the Clean Ganga Fund were honored, encouraging further support for river conservation efforts.
5. Nationwide Reach: In addition to New Delhi’s central event, parallel activities were organized across 75+ locations, creating a nationwide celebration of rivers as lifelines of India’s economy, culture, and spirituality.
An expedition, Ganga Mashal was flagged off by Hon’ble ministers on 3rd day of Ganga Utsav. Ganga Mashal is part of Meri Ganga Meri Shan campaign by Ganga Task Force- a battalion of Territorial Army raised under Namami Gange mission for various rejuvenation efforts. The Mashal would travel along the Ganga and halt at 23 locations where events to sensitize people and volunteers will be organised. Shri Kiren Rijiju said, “Ganga Mashal is the best way to take Ganga Utsav forward in a dignified and inspiring manner.” Brigadier Naveen Singh was representing Ganga Task Force at the flag off ceremony joined by Col Vaidya.
Collaborative Efforts
NMCG partnered with Wildlife Institute of India, INTACH, National Book Trust, Ganga Task Force, schools, NGOs, and various cultural and environmental organizations to maximize outreach.
Ganga Utsav 2021 set a model for river festivals by connecting people to rivers, underscoring the need to keep these water bodies clean and vibrant for generations to come.