Published on 02 Feb 2025
Present situation
Regional disparities: Water scarcity is not uniform across the country, leading to regional disparities. Some regions face acute shortages, while others have more abundant water resources.
Example: Regions like Rajasthan and parts of Maharashtra face acute water scarcity, while states like Assam have relatively abundant water resources.
Agriculture demand: Agriculture is the largest consumer of water in India, accounting for about 80% of the total consumption.
Example: In Punjab, traditional flood irrigation practices contribute to high water consumption in agriculture, leading to groundwater depletion.
Groundwater Depletion: Over-extraction of groundwater, especially for agricultural purposes, has led to the depletion of aquifers in several regions.
Example: Over-exploitation of groundwater in parts of Tamil Nadu has led to declining water tables, impacting the availability of water for irrigation.
Inter-State Water Disputes: Disputes over water-sharing arrangements between states highlight the challenges in equitable distribution and management.
Example: The Cauvery River dispute between Karnataka and Tamil Nadu highlights the challenges in equitable water distribution among riparian states.
Future situation
Population growth: The projected population growth in India adds pressure on water resources, increasing demand for domestic, industrial, and agricultural purposes.
Example: The projected increase in population in Uttar Pradesh puts additional pressure on water resources for both urban and rural communities.
Increased Urbanization: The ongoing trend of urbanization is expected to continue, further escalating the demand for water in cities and stressing existing water infrastructure.
Example: Urbanization of the National Capital Region (NCR) amplifies water demand in cities like Delhi and its neighbouring areas.
Climate change impact: Climate change projections suggest increased uncertainty in rainfall patterns, with more intense and sporadic rainfall events, affecting water availability.
Example: Erratic monsoon causing heavy rainfall in states like Kerala and drought-like conditions in Tamil Nadu
Pollution concerns: Pollution of water sources, including rivers and groundwater, poses a threat to the availability of clean water for both drinking and agricultural purposes.
Example: The pollution of the Yamuna River in Delhi from industrial discharge and untreated sewage affects the availability of clean water for domestic use.
Geography
Water scarcity in India: Present and the future
water resources
water stress
General Studies Paper 1
Resources Distribution