Call for Expressions of Interest: Wastewater Reuse Research in India

UN-Habitat is inviting institutions to lead country-scale research on wastewater reuse flows, policies, and systems in India, with a focus on a megacity case study. The project aligns with Sustainable Development Goal 6.3 and aims to improve sustainable urban water management. Selected institutions will conduct policy, technical, and governance analysis and produce a comprehensive national and city-level report.

Overview of the Opportunity

UN-Habitat is seeking qualified institutions to undertake a large-scale research study on wastewater reuse in India.

The research will analyze wastewater generation, treatment, reuse potential, and policy frameworks, with a strong emphasis on practical implementation and scalable solutions.

This initiative supports global frameworks such as the New Urban Agenda and SDG 6.3, focusing on improving water quality through wastewater treatment, recycling, and safe reuse.

Key Research Focus Areas

Wastewater Reuse Policy and Governance

• National and state-level policies
• Institutional roles and federal governance structure
• Incentives, barriers, and regulatory challenges

Wastewater Generation and Reuse Potential

• Assessment of wastewater flows in India
• Sector-wise reuse potential (domestic, agricultural, industrial)
• Identification of high-impact cities and regions

Standards and Regulatory Frameworks

• Existing wastewater quality standards
• Treatment requirements for reuse applications
• Compliance mechanisms and regulatory gaps

Megacity Case Study

• In-depth analysis of one major Indian city
• Decentralized wastewater treatment systems
• Governance models and reuse mechanisms
• Market-based and public-private partnership approaches

Innovation and Best Practices

• Pilot projects and innovative reuse solutions
• International comparisons and lessons learned
• Scalable models for other global megacities

Program Objectives

• Strengthen sustainable urban water management in India
• Improve wastewater treatment and safe reuse
• Support evidence-based policymaking
• Promote scalable and innovative reuse solutions
• Contribute to global knowledge on wastewater reuse

What the Selected Institution Will Do

• Conduct national-level wastewater flow assessment (aligned with SDG indicator 6.3.1)
• Analyze policy, governance, and regulatory systems
• Evaluate reuse potential across sectors
• Perform a detailed megacity case study
• Identify barriers, opportunities, and best practices
• Produce a comprehensive research report with actionable recommendations

Who is Eligible?

Eligible Applicants

• Research institutions
• Universities and academic bodies
• Policy think tanks
• Technical and environmental organizations

Required Expertise

• Wastewater management and treatment
• Water reuse systems and technologies
• Policy and regulatory analysis
• Data collection and quantitative analysis

Institutional Requirements

• Proven track record in similar research projects
• Qualified multidisciplinary team
• Strong organizational and governance structure

Application Requirements

Applicants must submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) including:

Core Documents

• Concept note (methodology, approach, objectives)
• Work plan and timeline
• Dissemination strategy

Supporting Information

• Profiles and resumes of key personnel
• Evidence of previous relevant projects
• Organizational structure and governance details

Financial Documentation

• Audited financial statements (last two years)
• Latest annual report
• Details of cash and in-kind contributions

How to Apply

Follow these steps:

1. Develop a detailed concept note aligned with the research scope
2. Assemble a qualified interdisciplinary team
3. Prepare all required technical and financial documents
4. Clearly define methodology, outputs, and timelines
5. Submit the Expression of Interest through the official UN-Habitat process

What to Expect After Selection

• Formal agreement with UN-Habitat
• Execution of research activities
• Collaboration with stakeholders and policymakers
• Submission of interim and final reports
• Contribution to global knowledge and policy frameworks

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Submitting a vague or generic concept note
• Lack of demonstrated expertise in wastewater research
• Missing financial or organizational documentation
• कमजोर methodology or unclear research design
• Ignoring SDG alignment and policy relevance

Tips for a Strong Application

• Align clearly with SDG 6.3 and urban sustainability goals
• Provide a robust and practical research methodology
• Highlight prior experience in large-scale studies
• Demonstrate interdisciplinary expertise
• Include clear, actionable outputs and policy relevance

Why This Opportunity Matters

Advances Sustainable Water Management

Supports efficient wastewater treatment and reuse systems

Strengthens Policy and Governance

Provides evidence-based insights for better regulation

Promotes Innovation

Encourages new technologies and scalable reuse models

Contributes to Global Goals

Aligns with SDGs and international urban development frameworks

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is the main objective of this call?

To conduct comprehensive research on wastewater reuse systems, policies, and practices in India.

2. Who can apply?

Research institutions, universities, and organizations with expertise in wastewater management and policy analysis.

3. Is the study limited to one city?

No, it includes national-level analysis plus a detailed megacity case study.

4. What is SDG 6.3?

It focuses on improving water quality by reducing pollution and increasing wastewater treatment and reuse.

5. What documents are required?

Concept note, team resumes, financial statements, annual report, and organizational details.

6. Is prior experience necessary?

Yes, applicants must demonstrate relevant experience in wastewater research.

7. What will be the final output?

A comprehensive report with policy recommendations, technical analysis, and case study insights.

Conclusion

This UN-Habitat research opportunity provides a significant platform for institutions to contribute to sustainable urban water management in India. By addressing wastewater reuse through policy, technical, and governance lenses, the project aims to generate actionable insights that can transform water systems, strengthen resilience, and support global sustainability goals.