Water Security Initiatives in India

Summary of News Article on Water Security Initiatives in India

The management and conservation of water resources in India largely fall under the jurisdiction of the state governments, as water is a state subject. However, the Central Government plays a pivotal role in supporting state efforts through various schemes and programs aimed at enhancing water security across the country.

Key Initiatives and Programs:

• Atal Bhujal Yojana: Focuses on the sustainable management of groundwater resources.
• Jal Shakti Abhiyan: Launched in 2019, this national campaign aims to promote rainwater harvesting, groundwater recharge, and rejuvenation of traditional water bodies.
• Pradhan Mantri Krishi Sinchai Yojana (PMKSY): Promotes irrigation efficiency and water conservation techniques.
• Jal Jeevan Mission (JJM): Aimed at providing assured drinking water supply to all households.
• National Aquifer Mapping (NAQUIM): Under which the CGWB has finished mapping 25 lakh sq. km and initiated NAQUIM 2.0 for detailed groundwater management in critical areas.
• Repair, Renovation & Restoration (RRR) of Water Bodies: Aims to restore traditional water bodies to promote their utility.
• Interlinking of Rivers (ILR): Proposed to resolve inter-state water disputes and ensure equitable distribution of water.

Advanced Technologies:

• The “Bhu-Neer” portal was launched in 2024 by the Central Ground Water Authority (CGWA). This state-of-the-art platform enhances the transparency and efficiency of groundwater extraction permissions through an online application process for industries and projects across 19 States/UTs.

Recent Initiatives:

• The Jal Sanchay Jan Bhagidari (JSJB) scheme was introduced on September 6, 2024, intending to encourage community participation in constructing artificial recharge structures and facilitate rooftop rainwater harvesting.

Coordination Between Governments:

• To enhance coordination between state and central governments, several River Management Boards and Dispute Resolution Tribunals have been constituted addressing inter-state river basin management.
• Regular meetings organized by the Ministry of Jal Shakti aim to review and resolve any issues related to ongoing projects.

Implementation and Impact:

• The report outlined the works completed and ongoing under Jal Shakti Abhiyan from March 9, 2024, to March 21, 2025. Multiple states have undertaken significant projects for water conservation:
  • Andhra Pradesh: Completion of extensive rainwater harvesting and watershed development efforts.
  • Bihar: Extensive completed and ongoing initiatives focusing on various water-related projects.
  • Maharashtra reported significant efforts in water conservation and groundwater recharge structures as part of the JSA.

Statistical Overview:

• As of the latest report, 1,301,806 water-related works have been completed, with ongoing projects amounting to 416,531 total works across the states.
• An exhaustive list of completed and ongoing projects across states provided a detailed overview of the amount of water conservation works undertaken, highlighting significant progress particularly in states like Maharashtra and Andhra Pradesh.

Important Points:

• Water resource management is a collaborative effort between Central and State Governments.
• Several schemes and programs are deployed for sustainable water management.
• Bhu-Neer portal enhances efficiency in groundwater extraction permissions.
• The Jal Shakti Abhiyan has substantially contributed to increased awareness of water conservation and management.
• Multiple initiatives promote community participation to address groundwater issues effectively.
• Detailed project lists available state-wise showcase achievements and contributions towards improved water security.

This collaborative approach addresses India's pressing water scarcity issues, setting a platform for sustainable water management in the future.