Water Status and Problems in India

Abstract

The surface water and groundwater resources of the country play a major role in agriculture, hydropower generation, livestock production, industrial activities, forestry, fisheries, navigation, recreational activities, etc. Traditionally, India has been an agriculture-based economy. Hence, development of irrigation to increase agricultural production for making the country self-sustained and for poverty alleviation has been of crucial importance for the planners. The rainfall in India shows great variations, unequal seasonal distribution, still more unequal geographical distribution and the frequent departures from the normal. In view of the existing status of water resources and increasing demands of water for meeting the requirements of the rapidly growing population of the country as well as the problems that are likely to arise in future, a holistic, well-planned long-term strategy needed for sustainable water resources management in India.