Water conservation and management

Published on 02 Feb 2025

Water conservation and management in India are critical aspects of ensuring the sustainable use of this vital resource. Various strategies and initiatives have been implemented at national, state, and local levels to address water challenges.

• Rainwater harvesting: Promotion of rainwater harvesting systems in urban and rural areas, making it mandatory for new constructions to include rainwater harvesting structures.

• Example: Jal Shakti Abhiyaan, a nationwide water conservation campaign, emphasizes rainwater harvesting and watershed management.

• Watershed management: Implementation of watershed management programs to enhance water retention, reduce soil erosion, and promote sustainable land use.

• Example: The National Watershed Development Project for Rain-fed Areas (NWDPRA) focuses on community-led watershed development for rain-fed areas.

• Legal framework: Regulation of groundwater extraction through laws and permits to prevent over-exploitation and depletion.

• Example: Proper enforcement of CGWA guidelines and Water Act.

• Promotion of efficient techniques in agriculture:  Encouragement of water-efficient agricultural practices, including drip and sprinkler irrigation, and the adoption of drought-resistant crop varieties.

• Example: The Pradhan Mantri Krishi Sinchai Yojana (PMKSY) promotes efficient water use in agriculture through various schemes.

• Community participation: Empowerment of local communities for participatory water management, encouraging community-led initiatives and water user associations.

• Example: Rajasthan's Jal Swavlamban Abhiyaan involves local communities in water harvesting and conservation activities.

• Awareness Programs: Conducting nationwide water conservation campaigns to raise awareness about the importance of water conservation and sustainable water use.

• Example: "Jal Hi Jeevan Hai" campaign, focusing on creating awareness about water conservation and management.

Tags:
Geography

Keywords:
Water conservation and management water resource

Syllabus:
General Studies Paper 1

Topics:
Salient Features of Indian Geography