Model Answer
0 min readIntroduction
India possesses approximately 4% of the world’s renewable water resources, accounting for about 8% of the world’s surface water and 20% of groundwater. However, despite this seemingly abundant endowment, India faces a severe and growing water crisis, ranking 129th globally in water quality and 15th in water stress (WaterAid, 2023). This paradox arises from a complex interplay of geographical, socio-economic, and governance factors that prevent equitable access to and sustainable management of this vital resource. The situation is further exacerbated by a rapidly growing population, changing consumption patterns, and the looming threat of climate change.
Geographical and Temporal Disparities
India’s freshwater resources are unevenly distributed spatially and temporally. The Brahmaputra-Ganga-Meghna basin holds over 70% of the total water resources, while regions like Rajasthan, Gujarat, and parts of Maharashtra and Karnataka face chronic water shortages. The monsoon-dependent nature of Indian rivers leads to significant seasonal variations. Approximately 80% of the annual rainfall occurs during just four months (June-September), leading to both floods and droughts.
Over-Extraction and Groundwater Depletion
Groundwater, which accounts for about 40% of India’s irrigation, is being over-extracted at an alarming rate. According to the Central Ground Water Board (CGWB, 2023), groundwater levels are declining in 30% of the assessed blocks across the country. Factors contributing to this include:
- Free or heavily subsidized electricity for irrigation pumps: Encourages excessive pumping.
- Lack of effective regulation: Limited enforcement of groundwater extraction rules.
- Increasing demand for water-intensive crops: Paddy rice and sugarcane are major contributors to groundwater depletion.
This over-extraction leads to land subsidence, reduced baseflow in rivers, and increased energy costs for pumping.
Water Pollution
Water quality is a major concern. Untreated sewage, industrial effluents, and agricultural runoff contaminate rivers and groundwater. The Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) reports that 70-80% of India’s surface water is polluted. Major rivers like the Ganga and Yamuna are heavily polluted despite numerous initiatives like Namami Gange. Pollution reduces the availability of usable water and poses serious health risks.
Governance and Institutional Failures
Weak water governance and fragmented institutional structures contribute to the crisis. Key issues include:
- Lack of integrated water resource management: Siloed approach across different departments and ministries.
- Inefficient irrigation practices: Flood irrigation is prevalent, leading to significant water losses.
- Poor maintenance of water infrastructure: Canals and dams suffer from seepage and silting.
- Limited community participation: Local communities are often excluded from water management decisions.
The Inter-State Water Disputes Act, 1956, has proven inadequate in resolving conflicts over shared water resources.
Climate Change Impacts
Climate change is exacerbating water scarcity. Changes in rainfall patterns, increased frequency of extreme weather events (droughts and floods), and glacial melt are impacting water availability. The Indian Network for Climate Change Assessment (INCCA) reports that the frequency of intense rainfall events has increased significantly in recent decades. This leads to increased runoff and reduced groundwater recharge.
| Factor | Impact on Water Scarcity |
|---|---|
| Uneven Distribution | Regional disparities in water availability |
| Over-Extraction | Groundwater depletion, reduced river baseflow |
| Pollution | Reduced usable water, health risks |
| Governance | Inefficient management, lack of coordination |
| Climate Change | Altered rainfall patterns, extreme weather events |
Conclusion
India’s water scarcity is not a result of absolute lack of resources, but rather a consequence of mismanagement, over-exploitation, and pollution. Addressing this crisis requires a multi-pronged approach encompassing improved water governance, demand-side management (water conservation, efficient irrigation), supply-side augmentation (water harvesting, desalination), and robust pollution control measures. Investing in water infrastructure, promoting community participation, and adapting to climate change are crucial for ensuring water security for all. A shift towards a more holistic and integrated water resource management framework is paramount for sustainable development.
Answer Length
This is a comprehensive model answer for learning purposes and may exceed the word limit. In the exam, always adhere to the prescribed word count.