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India's National Water Policy


The National Water Policy (NWP) is India's central framework for managing and utilizing its water resources. It lays down principles, objectives, and strategies for optimal water development, management, and regulation across the country.

Year of Initiation and Revisions:

  • The first NWP was adopted in 1987, focusing on increasing irrigation, drinking water access, and sanitation facilities.
  • It was revised in 2002 to address emerging challenges like inter-state water disputes and environmental considerations.
  • The current policy, NWP 2012, emphasizes integrated water management, conservation, and sustainability.

Ministry of Jal Shakti:

  • In 2019, the Ministry of Water Resources, River Development and Ganga Rejuvenation was merged with the Ministry of Drinking Water and Sanitation to form the Ministry of Jal Shakti.
  • This unified ministry oversees the implementation of the NWP and other water-related programs and initiatives.

Key Highlights of the NWP 2012:

  • Equity and social justice: Prioritizes equitable water allocation for various uses, including drinking, irrigation, industry, and ecology.
  • Decentralized management: Promotes participatory decision-making through local water user groups and basin-level planning.
  • Water conservation and efficiency: Encourages rainwater harvesting, efficient irrigation practices, and wastewater reuse.
  • Environmental protection: Recognizes the ecological needs of rivers and aquatic ecosystems.
  • Pricing and tariffs: Advocates for volumetric water pricing to promote efficient usage and cost recovery.

Related Information:

  • Jal Jeevan Mission: Aims to provide piped water supply to all rural households by 2024.
  • Catch the Rain campaign: Promotes rainwater harvesting structures across the country.
  • Atal Mission for Rejuvenation and Urban Transformation (AMRUT): Focuses on water supply and sanitation infrastructure in urban areas.
  • National Water Mission: Launched under the National Action Plan on Climate Change, it aims to improve water availability and efficiency through various interventions.

Challenges and Concerns:Implementing the NWP effectively requires coordinated efforts from various stakeholders at central, state, and local levels.

  • Balancing different water demands and ensuring equitable access remains a challenge.
  • Addressing issues like climate change, pollution, and groundwater depletion requires urgent attention.




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