Fri Sep 05 07:41:08 UTC 2025: Okay, here’s a news article summarizing the provided text, focusing on the water-related aspects:

**News Article:**

**Water Table Rises Significantly Thanks to Jal Shakti Abhiyan, Official Says**

**BENGALURU, September 5, 2025** – The Jal Shakti Abhiyan, a national initiative focused on water conservation, has resulted in a substantial increase of 11.36 billion cubic meters in water tables across India, according to N. Ashok Babu, Director of the National Water Mission, Ministry of Jal Shakti. Mr. Babu revealed this figure during his keynote address at the Federation of Karnataka Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FKCCI) India CSR and Sustainability Awards ceremony on September 4th.

He also provided updates on ongoing water disputes, stating that the Krishna Water Disputes Tribunal (involving Karnataka, Maharashtra, and Andhra Pradesh) and the Mahadayi Water Disputes Tribunal (involving Karnataka and Goa) are currently at different stages of hearing. The awards in the Godavari, Krishna, and Kaveri water disputes, where Karnataka is a party, have been finalized, he added.

Mr. Babu highlighted the extensive efforts undertaken as part of the Jal Shakti Abhiyan, including the completion of over two crore conservation projects, 142 crore afforestation activities, and the development of 639 district water conservation plans. Jal Shakti Kendras are actively functioning in 712 districts to further support these initiatives.

Despite the positive impact of the Abhiyan, the Central Ground Water Resources Assessment Report 2024 indicates that 102 districts remain over-exploited in terms of groundwater resources.

M.G. Balakrishna, President of FKCCI, praised the Ministry’s efforts and reaffirmed the organization’s long-standing commitment to supporting industrial, trade, and community development within Karnataka.

The FKCCI India CSR and Sustainability Awards recognize organizations contributing to sustainable development and corporate social responsibility initiatives.

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