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  • Jul 14, 2021
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Central Ground Water Board

Q. Central Ground Water Board has recently released a report with regard to the over-exploitation of groundwater in India. Write a brief note on this report and comment on the same.

Introduction:

Central Ground Water Board has released a report related to present conditions of ground water levels in India. The report states that one-sixth of the available ground water reserves are over-exploited. This is not only due to India but also a problem of Indian sub-continent.

Body:

Findings of the study:

  • A total of 6965 units were studied.
  • Signs of improvement can be seen in the Ground water situation
  • Increase in annual recharge of the levels
  • Increase in net extractable ground water

Report compared to 2017 assessment

Type

 % in 2017

% in 2021
Saline 1.5

1.3

Over-exploited

 17.2 16
Critical 4.6

3.9

Semi-critical

 14.1

15.2
Safe 62.6

63.6

The above data shows that there is increase in percentage of safe gorund water units and also decrease in the percentages of over-exploited and critical reserves. Over-exploitation is caused when the ground water extraction exceeds the replenishment.

Reasons for crisis:

  • Arid climate
  • Unscientific agricultural practices
  • Improper irrigation
  • Soil erosion

Conclusion:

Traditional water harvesting methods like kulhs, bunds will help in replenishing the sources. Over-irrigation should be stopped. Methods like drip and sprinkler irrigation should be used. National Grounwater Management Improvement Programme under Atal Bhujal Yojna is implemented in this regard.