The Ministry of Jal Shakti has rolled out a series of wide-ranging initiatives and collaborative programs. These measures aim to boost water conservation efforts, enhance groundwater recharge, and promote efficient water management practices at both governmental and community levels.
In recent years, multiple factors—such as erratic rainfall patterns, intensified agricultural demands, and growing urbanization—have amplified the stress on India’s groundwater reserves. Recognizing the urgency, the Government of India, under the umbrella of the Jal Shakti Abhiyan (JSA), has spearheaded initiatives to ensure the sustainability of this vital resource.
Key Interventions
- Jal Shakti Abhiyan (JSA):
Launched in 2019, JSA focuses on a mission-mode approach and encourages water conservation activities. According to the Ministry of Jal Shakti, more than 1.07 crore water conservation structures have been constructed in the last four years. In its latest phase, JSA 2024 gives special attention to 151 water-stressed districts. - National Aquifer Mapping (NAQUIM):
The Central Ground Water Board (CGWB) has mapped approximately 25 lakh square kilometers of aquifers, empowering local authorities with detailed plans to manage and rejuvenate groundwater resources. - Master Plan for Artificial Recharge:
Released in 2020, this plan recommends the construction of around 1.42 crore rainwater harvesting and artificial recharge structures, potentially capturing about 185 Billion Cubic Meters (BCM) of water. - Per Drop More Crop (PDMC) Scheme:
Under the Department of Agriculture & Farmers’ Welfare, the PDMC focuses on improving farm-level water efficiency through micro-irrigation. Since 2015-16, over 94.36 lakh hectares of land have adopted micro-irrigation, maximizing every drop of available water. - Mission Amrit Sarovar:
Aiming to develop or rejuvenate at least 75 water bodies per district, this drive has led to nearly 69,000 water bodies being revived across the nation, strengthening local water security. - Regulatory Framework and Enforcement:
The Central Ground Water Authority (CGWA) regulates groundwater abstraction through No-Objection Certificates (NOCs). It also imposes Environmental Compensation charges for unauthorized extraction. Meanwhile, 17 States and Union Territories have instituted their own regulations, working alongside a model bill drafted by the Central Government to curtail indiscriminate groundwater extraction. - Community Engagement:
- Atal Bhujal Yojana: Active in parts of seven states, it empowers local communities to create Water Security Plans based on water budgeting and responsible usage.
- Jal Shakti Kendras: Formed under the Jal Shakti Abhiyan, these district-level centers facilitate community involvement and spread awareness on water conservation.
- Jal Sanchay Jan Bhagidari: Launched by the Prime Minister in Surat, Gujarat, this initiative emphasizes collective efforts to save every drop of water, calling for a “whole-of-society” approach.
- Jal Jeevan Mission (JJM): Focusing on water quality, it has trained over 24 lakh women to use Field Test Kits (FTKs), empowering local communities to monitor water safety.
Positive Outcomes
The Ministry of Jal Shakti reports that these efforts have begun to bear fruit. Groundwater recharge increased from 433 BCM in 2017 to approximately 446.90 BCM by 2024. The rise in recharge can be attributed to the construction of additional rainwater harvesting structures, expanding micro-irrigation coverage, and greater public awareness about the need for sustainable water use.
The collective action of central agencies, state governments, and local communities underscores India’s commitment to combating groundwater depletion. With stricter regulations, financial incentives, and ongoing public engagement, the country continues to strive for a balanced approach to water management, ensuring that this precious resource remains viable for present and future generations.