New Delhi – The Water Transversality Global Awards & Conclave 2026, organised by the India Water Foundation at the India International Centre, New Delhi, celebrated outstanding global leadership in advancing integrated and sustainable water governance. The international gathering brought together policymakers, scientists, development practitioners and institutional leaders to deliberate on the theme of “ESG Transversality for a Sustainable Water–Energy–Health–Environment Nexus.”
One of the highlights of the conclave was the recognition of distinguished global leaders whose work has significantly shaped international water policy, basin cooperation and sustainable resource management. The prestigious Lifetime Achievement Awards were conferred by Chief Guest Sh. Om Birla, Hon’ble Speaker of the Lok Sabha on Dr. Eric Tardieu, Director General of the International Office for Water and Secretary General of the International Network of Basin Organizations as well as Vice President of the World Water Council; Mr. Alain Meyssonnier, President of the Mediterranean Water Institute and Governor of the World Water Council; and Prof. Dr. Rabi Mohtar, Professor at the American University of Beirut’s Faculty of Agricultural and Food Sciences, Executive Board Member of the International Water Resources Association and Governor of the World Water Council.
In addition to the Lifetime Achievement recognitions, the Water Leadership Award was presented to Mr. Ignacio Deregibus, Executive Director of the International Water Resources Association, in recognition of his leadership in strengthening global knowledge networks and advancing evidence-based water governance. Under his stewardship, the International Water Resources Association has played a vital role in connecting researchers, policymakers and practitioners across continents, fostering dialogue on innovative water solutions and promoting collaborative approaches to address the world’s growing water challenges.
These honours recognized decades of exceptional contributions to advancing global water cooperation, strengthening river basin governance and promoting science-based solutions for sustainable water management.
Dr. Eric Tardieu was honoured for his outstanding leadership in strengthening global river basin cooperation and institutional water governance. Through his role at the International Network of Basin Organizations and the International Office for Water, he has been instrumental in promoting integrated water resources management across transboundary basins around the world. His work has helped build international partnerships, strengthen knowledge exchange between basin authorities and promote collaborative solutions to shared water challenges. As Vice President of the World Water Council, Dr. Tardieu has also played a critical role in shaping global water policy dialogues and advancing collective action for water security.
Mr. Alain Meyssonnier received the Lifetime Achievement Award in recognition of his long-standing commitment to water diplomacy and Mediterranean water cooperation. As President of the Mediterranean Water Institute and Governor of the World Water Council, he has consistently championed regional collaboration to address water scarcity, climate change and sustainable development challenges in water-stressed regions. His leadership has strengthened international dialogue among governments, research institutions and civil society, helping to foster cooperative frameworks for water security and resilience across the Mediterranean region and beyond.
Prof. Dr. Rabi Mohtar was recognized for his pioneering contributions to advancing the water-energy-food nexus and sustainable agricultural water management. A globally respected scientist and policy advisor, Prof. Mohtar has been at the forefront of integrating scientific research with policy frameworks to address the interconnected challenges of water, food and energy security. Through his academic work at the American University of Beirut and his leadership roles in international organizations, he has significantly advanced interdisciplinary approaches that promote resilience, sustainability and informed decision-making in water governance.
Speaking at the conclave, Dr. Arvind Kumar, President of India Water Foundation, emphasized that the achievements of these global leaders reflect the growing importance of collaborative and transdisciplinary approaches in addressing water challenges. He noted that the concept of Water Transversality highlights the interconnected nature of water with energy systems, public health, environmental sustainability and socio-economic development, and therefore requires leadership that bridges sectors, institutions and geographies.
The recognition of these distinguished leaders at the Water Transversality Global Awards underscores the urgent need for global cooperation and integrated governance in addressing the complex water challenges of the 21st century. Their work continues to inspire policymakers, scientists and institutions worldwide to pursue innovative solutions that ensure water security, climate resilience and sustainable development for future generations
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