Permanent Mission of India
New York
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2026 ECOSOC High-level Political Forum of Sustainable Development (HLPF) Interactive Dialogue 1: SDG 6 and Interlinkages with Other SDGs
– Water and Sanitation

Statement by Ms. Petal Gahlot, First Secretary
7 July 2026

Thank you, Mr. President.

Progress on SDG 6 has multiplier effects across food security, health, energy, biodiversity and resilient cities. Yet, implementation remains uneven and must be accelerated through nationally determined solutions.

India's experience demonstrates that political commitment, public investment and community ownership can deliver transformative results. Through the Jal Jeevan Mission, more than 150 million rural households have gained access to tap water connections, complemented by the Swachh Bharat Mission, which has significantly expanded sanitation coverage and improved public health outcomes, particularly for women and girls. These efforts have been reinforced by scientific monitoring, digital platforms and local participation, illustrating the importance of a strong science-policy interface.

As we prepare for the forthcoming UN Water Conferences, our focus should remain on accelerating implementation rather than creating new processes. Adequate means of implementation remain indispensable. Developed countries must fulfil their commitments on finance, technology development and transfer on mutually agreed terms, and capacity-building, so that no one is left behind. I thank you.

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