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Groundwater Governance
Groundwater governance is increasingly important as global groundwater extraction has surged, with India, the USA, and China using nearly half of it. In India, groundwater management faces challenges due to unclear legal frameworks, insufficient data, and weak institutional support. Critical areas like Kerala and Punjab are experiencing over-exploitation. Effective governance requires community participation, regulations, and awareness initiatives. Internationally, many countries have implemented groundwater legislation and agreements to manage shared resources. A proposed model bill emphasizes groundwater as a public trust, advocating for the protection and regulation of this vital resource while promoting sustainable practices.
AN ECOSYSTEM PERSPECTIVE TO GROUNDWATER GOVERNANCE IN INDIA
The governance of groundwater in India faces significant challenges due to varying aquifer types, overexploitation, and climate change impacts. With over 30 million wells, groundwater serves as a critical resource for both domestic and industrial use, despite being underutilized and poorly managed in many regions. Effective groundwater management requires a comprehensive understanding of aquifer dynamics, community participation, and regulatory frameworks that balance extraction with sustainability. Prioritizing equitable access, protecting recharge areas, and engaging users in decision-making are essential for addressing water scarcity and ensuring long-term water security across diverse ecosystems.