Water Conservation on World Water Day

Context

Recently, the Prime Minister Narendra Modi emphasised the importance of water conservation and sustainable development on World Water Day (March 22, 2025).

He proposed to join together to collectively work on safeguarding the water resource for future generations.

Relevance:
GS-02 (Government policies and interventions)

Dimensions of the Article:

Key highlights
Current water Scenario in India
Challenges
Government Measures to Address Water Crisis

Key Highlights

The theme of World Water Day 2025 is “Glacier Preservation” to preserve world’s glaciers.
The Prime Minister urged the adoption of sustainable water management systems at both individual and institutional levels.
He reaffirmed to align schemes like Jal Jeevan Mission, Atal Bhujal Yojana, and Namami Gange for efficient water resource management.

Current Water Scenario in India

India is currently under a severe water scarcity crisis with its 1.4 billion population.
However, the major problem is the availability of clean drinking water and basic sanitation.
Factors like rapid urbanisation, excessive groundwater extraction, and changing rainfall patterns have worsened the situation.
- India holds 18% of the global population but possesses only 4% of the world’s freshwater resources.
- Regions suffer from unequal water distribution, with some states battling droughts while others face floods.
- Groundwater depletion is a growing concern, particularly in agricultural states.

Challenges:

Depleting Groundwater Reserves: Unregulated extraction has led to critical groundwater levels in Punjab, Haryana, and Rajasthan.
Water contamination: Studies suggest that nearly 70% of India’s water sources are polluted with chemicals and waste.
Inefficient Water Usage: Traditional irrigation techniques result in massive water wastage in agriculture, the largest water-consuming sector.
Climate Change Effects: Erratic monsoons and prolonged dry spells are making water resources unreliable.

Government Measures to Address Water Crisis

Atal Bhujal Yojana: Promotes community-led groundwater management to prevent over-extraction.
Jal Shakti Abhiyan: A nationwide campaign focused on rainwater harvesting and water conservation.
Jal Jeevan Mission: Aims to provide functional tap water connections to every rural household.
National Water Policy: Advocates sustainable water management and regulation of groundwater use.

Way forward:

With the current rise in India’s population, the depleting groundwater level is a major concern that needs to be addressed.
Government initiatives to recharge groundwater levels like the Jal Shakti Abhiyan (JSA), Atal Bhujal Yojana (ABY), etc. should be implemented effectively.
Active initiatives should be held at the community level to raise awareness about water conservation.

Prelims Question

Which of the following government schemes is specifically designed for groundwater management in India?

A) Atal Bhujal Yojana

B) Jal Jeevan Mission

C) Namami Gange

D) PM-KUSUM

Answer: A) Atal Bhujal Yojana

Mains Question:

Discuss the key challenges related to water management in India and evaluate the effectiveness of government initiatives in ensuring water security. (250 words)