India's water governance architecture crucial for sustainable economic growth and social well-being
India faces a paradox: abundant annual rainfall (4,000 billion cubic metres) but significant water scarcity due to inefficient capture, storage, and use. The country's water crisis is institutional, not just hydrological, with per-capita water availability declining from over 5,000 to 1,400 cubic metres annually. India is the world's largest groundwater user, accounting for a quarter of global extraction. Governance involves a complex multi-level structure with Union, State, and local bodies. Initiatives like Jal Jeevan Mission, Atal Bhujal Yojana, and Pradhan Mantri Krishi Sinchayee Yojana aim to improve water supply, groundwater management, and irrigation efficiency, moving towards a circular water economy.
Key Points
- India's water crisis is primarily institutional, stemming from inefficient water capture, storage, and use, despite high annual rainfall.
- Per-capita water availability has significantly declined from over 5,000 to 1,400 cubic metres annually.
- India is the world's largest groundwater user, responsible for roughly a quarter of global extraction.
- Water governance involves a complex multi-level structure with responsibilities shared between Union, State, and local governments.
- Key initiatives include Jal Jeevan Mission for rural tap connections, Atal Bhujal Yojana for participatory groundwater management, and Pradhan Mantri Krishi Sinchayee Yojana for micro-irrigation.
Exam Facts
- India's annual rainfall: nearly 4,000 billion cubic metres.
- Per-capita water availability (current): around 1,400 cubic metres.
- India's share of global groundwater extraction: roughly a quarter.
- Key missions: Jal Jeevan Mission (launched 2019, extended to 2028), Atal Bhujal Yojana, Pradhan Mantri Krishi Sinchayee Yojana, Atal Mission for Rejuvenation and Urban Transformation (AMRUT), Namami Gange Programme.
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