WATER RESOURCE MANAGEMENT
In this article we will look at what initiatives can be taken to improve the status of water management in India. India is excessively dependant on monsoon for agriculture. Less than 50% of the total agricultural land has reliable water supply. 2/3rd of the cultivable land is dependent on monsoon. By putting in place infrastructure for improved irrigation, there can be positive impact on food security and agricultural productivity. It will also reduce the dependence on monsoons and enhance job opportunities.
Scientific water management initiatives should be adopted with the aim to achieve sustainable and equitable water supply. Mandatory rain water harvesting programs should be implemented in order to recharge the aquifers. “Million Wells Recharge” scheme should be launched to specifically target the private wells.
Pradhan Mantri Krishi Sinchayee Yojana aims to expand cultivable irrigation area (Har Keth Ko Paani) and improve water use efficiency by adoption of precision irrigation technologies such as drip irrigation to achieve “More Crop Per Drop”
Villages should aim to attain Jal Swaraj by adopting decentralized water management initiatives. Gram Saba’s should be empowered to administer the water resources and made into Paani Panchayats for effective resource utilization.