SECTION H: RESEARCH & POLICY AWARDS
Best Research Paper / Academic Contribution in Water Sector
Description: Recognizes outstanding research contributions in the water, wastewater, and sanitation sectors. Focus on innovations published in reputed journals, technical breakthroughs, or real-world problem-solving research studies.
Eligibility:
- Researchers, universities, academic institutions, Ph.D. scholars, research think tanks.
- Papers must have been published in the last 5 years (peer-reviewed or recognized at conferences).
Judging Criteria (100 points) :
- Innovation / Novelty of Research (30)
- Scientific Quality & Methodology (20)
- Practical Applicability / Industry Adoption Potential (20)
- Publication Impact (citations, recognition, indexation) (20)
- Clarity & Presentation of Research Outcomes (10)
Notes: Applicants must share the published paper, abstract, citation details, and references.
Excellence in Government Policy / Regulation in Water Management
Description: Awarded to government policies, legislations, or regulatory frameworks that have significantly improved water use efficiency, wastewater reuse, sanitation, or environmental sustainability.
Eligibility:
- National/state governments, municipal administrations, regulatory authorities.
- Policies must be in implementation for minimum 2 years with proven outcomes.
Judging Criteria:
- Innovation in Policy / Framework (25)
- Scale of Impact (coverage, water saved, compliance enforced) (25)
- Effectiveness of Implementation (20)
- Long-Term Sustainability (20)
- Governance & Stakeholder Engagement (10)
Notes: Entries should include copies of the policy/regulation, implementation reports, and independent evaluation reports if available.
Recognition Award for UN SDG-6 Achievements
Description: Celebrates organizations or projects contributing significantly to UN Sustainable Development Goal 6: Clean Water and Sanitation for All, ensuring universal access, safe reuse, and sustainability.
Eligibility:
- Governments, corporates, NGOs, international development organizations, utilities.
- Must demonstrate measurable contribution directly aligned to SDG-6 indicators.
Judging Criteria:
- Alignment with SDG-6 Targets (30)
- Demonstrated Measurable Impact (no. of people served, water quality improved) (25)
- Sustainability & Long-term Effects (20)
- Partnerships & Inclusivity of Efforts (15)
- Potential for Replication in Other Regions (10)
Notes: Independent impact assessment reports will strengthen the application.
Best Collaboration (Govt-Industry-Academia) Project
Description: Recognizes exemplary collaborative projects combining the knowledge of government institutions, corporate expertise, and academic research to address complex water/wastewater challenges.
Eligibility:
- Consortium-based projects that include at least two of the three entities (Govt + Industry + Academia).
- Projects must be ongoing or completed within the last 5 years.
Judging Criteria:
- Strength & Uniqueness of Partnership (25)
- Innovation & Multidisciplinary Approach (20)
- Measurable Impact on Water/Wastewater Challenges (25)
- Sustainability of Outcomes (20)
- Replication / Expansion Potential (10)
Notes:Application must detail roles of each partner, signed MoUs/partnerships, and case studies demonstrating outcomes.