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Government of India
Ministry of Water Resources
STRATEGIC PLAN FOR MINISTRY OF WATER RESOURCES
New Delhi
February, 2011
STRATEGIC PLAN FOR MINISTRY OF WATER RESOURCES
Contents
Chapter Description Page
I Introduction 1 II Water Sector – Present Scenario and Future Challenges 4 2.1 Water Resources of India
2.1.1 Rainfall 2.1.2 Spatial and temporal variations in rainfall 2.1.3 Overall water availability
4 4 4 4
2.2 Per Capita Water Availability 5 2.3 Irrigation Development 6 2.4 Flood Management 6 2.5 Storage Capacity Created 7 2.6 Some Serious Concerns
2.6.1 Unsustainable development 2.6.2 Non optimal utilization of created facilities 2.6.3 Efficiency of water use 2.6.4 Crop Diversification 2.6.5 Water quality issues
7 7
10 11 13 14
2.7 Future Challenges 2.7.1 Growing population and increasing demand 2.7.2 Competing demand of water for various sectors 2.7.3 Impact of climate change on water resources
15 15 15 16
III Key Stakeholders and their Roles 18 3.1 Constitutional Provisions 18 3.2 Recommendations of Commission on Centre State Relations 19
IV Role of Union Ministry of Water Resources 21 4.1 Functions 21 4.2 Organizations under Ministry of Water Resources 21 4.3 Plan Schemes of Ministry of Water Resources 22 4.4 Strength of Ministry of Water Resources 25 4.5 Weaknesses of Ministry of Water Resources 27 4.6 Measures for Addressing Future Challenges 27
V Strategic Plan for Ministry of Water Resources – Vision, Mission and Goals
28
VI Key Priorities and Identified Strategies 30 Annexures
I Basin-wise Average Annual Water Availability 35 II Goals and Strategies Identified under National Water Mission 36
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Chapter – I
INTRODUCTION
Water is essential for sustaining life and at the same time, it is an important component for almost all developmental plans. Obviously the schemes for development of water resources for beneficial use of the society have been taken up since the time immemorial. Considerable progress has been made in respect of water resources development in India after independence through various Plans and such developments have helped in almost five fold increase in creation of irrigation potential. Total created irrigation potential at pre-Plan period was about 22.6 million hectares (Mha) which at present is about 108.2 Mha. There has also been appreciable development in the areas of drinking water supply and other uses. However, growing population, urbanization and industrialization has led to considerable increase in demand of water for various purposes e.g., irrigation, domestic needs, industrial requirements etc.
As mentioned earlier, several projects for utilization of surface water as well as ground
water resources have been undertaken. However in some cases, the unplanned development has led to over exploitation of the resource affecting the physical sustainability. The adverse impact of such unplanned development is evident from the alarming decline in water table in some areas. The developmental activities for utilization of water resources as also the development in other sectors particularly industrial sector coupled with urbanization have resulted in pollution of water – both surface water as well as ground water. Further, the utilization of the created facilities is far from optimal as the water sector in India suffers from: (a) relatively low water use efficiency; and (b) increasing gap between the created irrigation potential and the utilized irrigation potential.
In this regard, it may also be important to note that the future development of water
resources are bound to be more challenging as the best options particularly from the topographical and geological considerations have since been tapped. Further, the future water resources development projects would need rigorous environmental and social evaluations.
In view of above mentioned challenges and particularly to address the two serious issues
namely “food security” and “impact of climate change”, initiatives have been taken by the Ministry of Water Resources to identify the most appropriate approach for water resources management and also to assign priorities.
Despite variations in availability of water, both within and over the years, the long term
average available water resources of the country may be considered to remain unchanged. Therefore the increasing demand for water for various purposes are bound to result in competition among the “uses” as well as among the “user groups” and with time such competitions are becoming fiercer and fiercer. The conflicts among the “users groups” are visible in the form of increasing inter-State issues. The prioritization of water uses for different purposes at different point of in the planning process as also during the operation is becoming more and more
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challenging in view of conflicting social and economic considerations. Such changing scenario calls for identification of most appropriate strategies for effectively addressing the future challenges.
The National Action Plan on Climate Change envisages institutionalization of eight national
missions including the “National Water Mission”. Realizing that (a) there are large number of stakeholders in water sector, (b) it involves many Ministries / Departments, (c) key role in implementation is to be played by States, and (d) there are numerous cross cutting issues, Ministry of water resources has carried out very detailed exercise in defining the goals and for identifying the strategies for achieving the goals of the “National Water Mission”. Consultative process adopted for preparation of the Comprehensive Mission Document of National Water Mission was as under.
a. Constitution of a Steering Committee under Secretary (WR) comprising of representatives from (i) Ministries concerned; (b) professional organizations; (c) academic institutions / Experts; and (iv) NGOs
b. In-depth examination of all related issues through Sub-committees on:
Policy and Institutional Framework;
Surface water management ;
Ground water management ;
Domestic and industrial water management ;
Efficient use of water for various purposes; and
Basin level planning and management c. Active involvement of various Stakeholder
Sub-committee on efficient water use chaired by the Additional Secretary, Ministry of Agriculture
Sub-committee on domestic and industrial water management chaired by the joint Secretary, Ministry of Urban Development
Representatives from States included on all Sub-committees
Experts / representatives of academic institutions / reputed NGOs in all Sub-committees
d. Circulation of the initial draft for the Mission Document to all States / Union Territories and seeking their views
e. Putting the draft Mission Document on Web Site of the Ministry of Water Resources f. Consultation with all Central Ministries concerned g. Organization of National Workshop to deliberate on the proposals included in the draft
Mission Document for “National water Mission"
Ministry of Water Resources has also initiated the process of consultation with various stakeholders in respect of review of National Water Policy which inter-alia identifies the priorities in respect of water resources management to address the future challenges. Further, the Government of India constituted a Group of Ministers for Evolving an Integrated Strategy for Water Management. For preparation of the Background Note for consideration of the Group of Ministers, detailed consultations were held with all concerned Central Ministries. The outcomes of such
3
consultations have also been taken into consideration while drafting the “Strategic Plan for Ministry of Water Resources”.
In this regard, it may be mentioned that the water sector has very strong linkages with all other developmental activities. In view of fast changing development scenario, it is emphasized that the key priorities and identified strategies cannot be considered as static and firm. These need to be reviewed and improved upon from time to time. However, to begin with, the “Strategic Plan for Ministry of Water Resources” has been prepared which includes chapters on:
water sector – present scenario and future challenges ;
key stakeholders and their roles;
role of Union Ministry of Water Resources;
strategic Plan for Ministry of Water Resources – vision, mission and objectives; and
key priorities and identified strategies.
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Chapter – II
WATER SECTOR – PRESENT SCENARIO AND FUTURE CHALLENGES 2.1 Water Resources of India 2.1.1 Rainfall
The average annual rainfall in the country is about 117 centimeters (cm). The total precipitation including the snowfall, when converted in volumetric terms, works out to be about 4000 billion cubic meters (BCM).
2.1.2 Spatial and Temporal Variations in Rainfall
The average annual rainfall varies considerably from about 1,000 cm in north eastern region to less than 10 cm in western part of Rajasthan. Figure-1 illustrates the variations in the rainfall from one region to the other.
In India, the rainfall mostly occurs during the monsoon and that too through a few spells of
intense rainfall. It has been estimated that the lower rainfall zone (less than 750 mm annual rainfall) accounts for 33% of net sown area. The medium rain fall zone (750-1125 mm) accounts for 35% of net sown area, the high rain fall zone (1125 to 2000 mm) covers 24% of net sown area where as very high rainfall zone (more than 2000 mm) accounts for remaining 8% of net sown area.
2.1.3 Overall Water Availability
After accounting for the losses due to evaporation, the total average annual water availability for the country has been estimated to be 1869 BCM. However, due to hydrological characteristics and topographical constraints, the utilizable water works out to be only 1123 BCM, out of which about 690 BCM is from surface water and about 433 BCM is through replenishable ground water. However, there are considerable spatial and temporal variations in availability of water as in case of rainfall. The basin-wise average annual water availability is at Annexure – I. Ganga-Brahmaputra river basin contributes to about 60% of the total annual water availability.
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Figure-1: Spatial variation in rainfall in (in cm) India
As mentioned above replenishable ground water has been estimated to be about 433 BCM.
As in case of surface water, there is considerable variation in the availability of ground water resources also. The largest volume of uncommitted surface water is available in the Ganges-Brahmaputra, Meghna Basin, but the sink is limited since the water table is within 3 m of surface in most parts of the basin. On the other hand, the largest sink is available in the Indus Basin (water table>15m in much of the area), but the volume of un-committed surface water for recharge is restricted. Uncommitted surface water for recharge is also limited in the Krishna, Cauvery, Pennar, Sabarmati, Mahi and Tapi Basins although aquifer space is available in these hard rock areas. 2.2 Per Capita Water Availability
In view of growing population, the per capita water availability is getting reduced year after
year. The estimated per capita water availability is in the following table.
Year Population (in millions) Per Capita water availability (in m3)
1951 361 5177 2001 1027 1820 2025 (projected) 1394 1341 2050 (projected) 1640 1140
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2.3 Irrigation Development
Water is the most critical input for agriculture and it plays a significant role for ensuring
increase in production through timely availability of water in required quantity in order to facilitate improved farming practices.
The gross ultimate irrigation potential for the country has been estimated to be about 139.9
million hectare (Mha). At pre-Plan stage i.e. in the year 1951, the total irrigation potential created was about 22.6 Mha. There has been considerable development in water resources sector. About 108 Mha i.e., about 77% of the ultimate irrigation potential has since been created. The details of the ultimate irrigation potential and the irrigation potential created through various categories of projects are illustrated in Table-2.
Table – 2: Ultimate Irrigation Potential and Irrigation Potential Created (in Mha)
The irrigation projects are planned and implemented by the respective State Governments. However, Ministry of Water Resources provides technical assistance through its various organizations. Central assistance is also provided under the schemes “Accelerated Irrigation Benefits Programme (AIBP)”, and “Repair, Renovation and Restoration (RRR) of Water Bodies”. 2.4 Flood Management
Floods are frequent in the country causing substantial damage. Many areas of the country frequently suffer from floods. Because of varying rainfall distribution, many a times, areas which are not prone to floods also experience severe inundation. With the increase in population and developmental activity, there has been a tendency to occupy flood plains which has resulted in more serious nature of damages over the year. The phenomenon of urban flooding due to inadequacy of storm water drainage also seems to be more frequent. The area prone to the floods in the country has been assessed to be of the order of about 46 Mha. Flood control measures mostly in the form of flood embankments have been undertaken and about 18.22 Mha of flood prone area have been protected. Ministry of Water Resources also maintains a network of 145 flood forecasting stations and 28 inflow forecasting stations for advance warning in respect of incoming floods. The Ministry of Water Resources is providing technical and financial assistance to States for effective flood management. The Ministry is implementing a State Sector Scheme “Flood Management Programme (FMP)” under which central assistance is provided to States for taking up flood protection, anti-erosion and drainage schemes.
Sl. No.
Description Major & Medium
Minor Total
Surface water
Ground water
a Ultimate irrigation potential 58.47 17.38 64.05 139.90 b Potential created 45.26 15.84 47.11 108.21 c Balance potential 13.21 1.54 16.94 31.69
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2.5 Storage Capacity Created
As indicated earlier, about 80% of the runoff is generated during the monsoon period of about 4 to 5 months and that too through a few spells of intense rainfall. Therefore, the conservation of water through storage either over the ground or under the ground is very important in view of very high temporal variations. The status in respect of the storage capacity created through large and small reservoirs in the country is furnished in Table – 3. In addition, there are several traditional water bodies.
Table – 3: Storage Capacity Created
1. Storage already created : 225 BCM 2. Storage in Projects under construction : 64 BCM 3.
Estimated storages through projects under consideration
: 108 BCM
Overall scenario, issues and approaches in respect of water resources availability, its utilization and requires actions are depicted in Figure – 2. It may be emphasized that Figure – 2 presents an overall scenario and that the approaches and priorities would vary considerably from one region to other. 2.6 SOME SERIOUS CONCERNS AND INITIATIVES TAKEN 2.6.1 Unsustainable Development
There are many cases of development of projects and schemes for utilization of water resources without proper investigation and planning. Many of the cases of “slipped back” habitation in respect of drinking water supply may also be attributed to unsustainable development without necessary investigations.
Over-exploitation of ground water in some areas poses a big challenge for its sustainability. At present, about 15% of the assessment blocks are over-exploited and about 14% of the assessment blocks fall in the category of critical and semi-critical blocks. Figure-3 shows the status of ground water in various Blocks / Mandals / Talukas.
Further, highly subsidized irrigation electricity tariffs and favourable investment terms
offered for irrigation well construction, have also contributed to indiscriminate level of ground water abstraction. Without effective interventions by State Governments, the situation is likely to continue to deteriorate and may affect even thr drinking water supply. Large numbers of “fully covered habitation” may slip back to “not covered habitations” either due to source drying up or deterioration of ground water quality.
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Figure-3: Status of Ground Water Development
Rainwater Harvesting and Ground Water Recharge
Necessary measures in the form of rain water harvesting and ground water recharge and proper management through appropriate legislative measures have been initiated. Ministry of Water Resources has circulated draft model bill for regulation and control of ground water development. So far, 11 States / Union Territories have enacted and implemented the legislation in this regard. 18 other States are in the process of enactment of legislation. Vigorous steps should be taken to follow up with these States to expedite enactment of legislation. Existing ground water legislation in the States needs to be implemented effectively.
A scheme for “Artificial Recharge to Ground Water through Dug Wells” has also been launched in 1180 over-exploited, critical and semi-critical blocks of seven States viz., Andhra Pradesh, Gujarat, Karnataka, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Rajasthan and Tamil Nadu during XI Plan. The scheme aims to facilitate improvement in ground water situation in the affected area, to increase the sustainability of wells during lean period, to improve quality of ground water and community involvement in water resources management in the affected areas.
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Watershed Development
The programme for soil conservation scheme of the Ministry of Agriculture also helps to some extent in recharge to ground water. Ministry of Agriculture is implementing programme of soil conservation in the catchments of river valley project & flood prone river through Macro Management of Agriculture (MMA) since November 2000. The programme is being implemented in 60 catchments having total catchment area of about 114.44 million hectare, out of which about 30 million hectare is categorized as priority area, needing urgent treatment falling in 27 States of the country.
Watershed Development Programme being implemented by Department of Land Resources
(Ministry of Rural Development) considerably help in conserving and augmenting ground water. The scheme is being implemented with an outlay of Rs.15,359 crores during XI Plan.
2.6.2 Non-optimal Utilization of Created Facilities Gap between Irrigation Potential Created and Utilised It is observed that the gap between the irrigation potential created and the irrigation potential utilized has continued to increase and at present about 15% of the created irrigation potential remain unutilized. Studies carried out by Indian Institutes of Management have indicated missing links or obstructions in the minors and distributaries, and hence water does not reach the tail end. Further, the difference between the irrigation potential created and utilized may also be due to changed cropping pattern and larger use of water by the farmers near the head reach of the canal. One of the important reasons is non-completion or absence of on-farm development works, irrigation system deficiencies including poor operation and maintenance. Lack of proper regulation of canal water also leads to over-use by the farmers on one hand and the shortage of water for the tail-enders on the other hand. Command Area Development and Water Management
Command area development and adoption of better water management practices considerably help in fully utilizing the created potential and also in improving the water use efficiency. A centrally sponsored “Command Area Development Programme” was launched in 1974-75 for development of adequate delivery systems of irrigation water up to farmers’ field with an objective to enhance water use efficiency. The programme has been re-structured and renamed as “Command Area Development and Water Management Programme (CAD&WM)” since April 2004. The programme is being implemented as State sector scheme since 2008-09. The important components of CAD&WM programme include (a) survey, planning and designing of on-farm development works, (b) on-farm development works, (c) correction of system deficiencies, (d) reclamation of water logged areas, (d) training / adaptive trails / demonstrations / evaluation, and (e) one time functional grants to Water Users’ Associations. The Programme emphasizes the implementation of Participatory Irrigation Management. The Government of India provides central assistance of 50% for all construction activities and 75% central assistance for soft components of
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the programme namely training / adaptive trials / demonstrations / evaluation etc. About 56,900 Water Users’ Associations have been formed so far.
In order to fully and effectively utilize the created irrigation potential, it is considered
necessary to integrate the activities related to command area development with the planning and implementation of irrigation projects.
Over-use of Resources – Problems of Water Logging Although development of irrigation has resulted in increase in agricultural production, it has also caused adverse effect in the form of water logging leading to soil salinity. Problem of water logging has been observed in the canal irrigation system and also in the areas of poor drainage resulting in accumulation of water. Apart from lining of canals, wherever required there is a need for drainage development either through surface/sub surface/bio drainage or a combined approach followed by appropriate agronomic measures. There is also a need for conjunctive use of surface and ground water. In the natural water logged areas if the sub surface sink is developed by appropriate utilization of ground water, the excess water can be stored in the ground water reservoir for its use at the time of requirement. Drainage development and suitable on farm management can be effectively taken up by the Ministry of Agriculture along with agriculture programmes. Ministry of Water Resources introduced a component for reclamation of water logged areas under CAD&WM. So far, 579 schemes of nine States namely Bihar, Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh, Jammu and Kashmir, Karnataka, Kerala, Maharashtra, Orissa and Uttar Pradesh have been approved for reclamation of 78.81 thousand hectare of water logged area. Out of this, an area of about 52.11 thousand hectare has been reported to be reclaimed by these States up to March 2008. There is need for adopting a comprehensive and integrated approach to address the problems which may inter-alia include adoption of efficient irrigation practices such as micro-irrigation, selective lining, drainage development and suitable on-farm management, and conjunctive use of surface and ground water. 2.6.3 Efficiency of Water Use
The irrigation infrastructures are not operating at desired efficiency. Efficiency of surface water projects has been assessed to be about 30-40%, which can be increased up to 60% by adopting efficient management practices, proper maintenance and modernization of existing infrastructures, command area development, participatory irrigation management and efficient irrigation and agricultural practices. Similarly, the efficiency of ground water facilities can be increased from the present level of about 65% to about 75%. This measure alone can save considerable water to meet the major portion of demand supply gap.
The efficiency of water use in agriculture can be improved with choice of most appropriate
cropping pattern and the specific crop variety most suitable for the region from the view of water availability. At the same time measures for moisture conservation are also very effective means of improving water use efficiency. System of Rice Intensification (SRI) is fast catching up in southern
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states as a method of agriculture practice for reducing water consumption by about 29-30% and yield
increases by about 30-40%. There is definite need for focused research and studies directed towards improving efficiency in water use. The National Mission for Sustainable Agriculture has laid emphasis on this aspect. At the technology level, the key principles for improving water productivity at the field, farm and basin levels are: (i) increase in the marketable yield of the crop for each unit of water used, (ii) reduction of all outflows (ex. drainage, seepage and percolation), and (iii) increase in the effective use of rainfall, stored water and water of marginal quality. New irrigation technologies that will improve field level water application efficiencies will be critical components of the demand-side management.
Ministry of Water Resources sanctioned Farmer Participatory Action Research Programme
at 5000 demonstration sites at a cost of Rs.24.46 crore. This programme is taken up in 25 States/UTs of the country with the help of 60 Agriculture Universities/Indian Council of Agricultural Research Institutes / International Crop Research Institute for the Semi-Arid Tropics (ICRISAT), Water and Land Management Institutes (WALMIs) and Non-Government Organizations (NGOs) to increase yield and income per drop of water. Water saving technological interventions were demonstrated on various crops such as paddy, wheat vegetable, gram and maize in various States. The performance of these technologies under FPARP were compared with the conventional method of irrigation in terms of percentage increase in water saving, yield and income as a result of the programme. Water saving has been indicated in wheat from 5% to 66.67%, vegetables 23.3% to 40%, paddy 25% to 55%. Increase in yield for wheat was ranging from 7.3% to 43%, vegetables 10% to 23% paddy 10% to 62%. Increase income for what 4.91% to 30%, vegetables 11% to 15.38% and Paddy 6% to 44%. Based on the feedbacks received so far, Ministry of Water Resources has considered the proposal for expansion of FPARP for the remaining period of XI five year plan at a cost of Rs.25 crore for implementation of 5000 additional demonstrations. Under the programme, the technologies relating to water conservation / water saving and having more water use efficiency are to be considered.
Panchayats and the local community should be involved right from the planning process in
water management, allocation and its distribution for all purposes including rural drinking water supply for efficient use of water. It is necessary to build capacities of Gram Panchayats, Village Water and Sanitation Committees, Pani Panchayats in general areas of overall water management and specific drinking water management through water demand and budgeting principles, understanding operation and maintenance requirements etc.
The efficiency of water use in agriculture can also be improved through better system of
water application, Ministry of Agriculture has introduced a centrally sponsored scheme on micro irrigation which aims at increasing the area under efficient methods of irrigation viz. drip and sprinkler irrigation. Under the scheme, out of the total cost of the micro irrigation system, 40% is borne by the Central Government, 10% by the respective State Government and the remaining 50% by the beneficiary, either through his / her own resources or soft loan from financial institutions. The Scheme covers all categories of farmers irrespective of the size of land holding. However, while selecting the beneficiaries, care is to be taken to ensure that the small and marginal farmers are given due priority for supplying the system. The scheme provides that at least 25% of the
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beneficiaries should be small and marginal farmers. Panchayati Raj Institutions (PRI) are involved while selecting the beneficiaries. So far 19.52 lakh hectares of irrigated area has been covered through micro irrigation. During XI Plan central assistance of about Rs.1361.25 crores has been released. The existing micro-irrigation scheme has recently been approved as National Mission on Micro Irrigation for implementation during the XI Plan with an outlay of Rs. 8,032.90 crores. The mission is expected to bring 2.5 Mha under micro irrigation.
Benchmarking of irrigation projects also helps in improved performance of irrigation
projects. Ministry of Water Resources / Central Water Commission organize workshops on Benchmarking of Irrigation Projects in cooperation with the Water Resources / Irrigation Departments of the State Governments with a view of generate awareness and knowledge sharing.
It is estimated that with 10% increase in present level water use efficiency, an additional 14 million hectare area can be brought under irrigation from the existing irrigation capacity which would involve a very moderate investment compared to the investment required to create equivalent potential, through micro irrigation, on farm water management, effective distribution system etc. 2.6.4 Crop Diversification
There was an unprecedented crop diversification during the first decade of 1970-80 of ground water development in Western India. Areas under the water guzzling rice crop expanded whereas areas under less water demanding bajra and maize crops decreased. Fish culture is also being taken up by pumping ground water into ponds with subsidized power. Planting of water guzzling crops like sugar cane, banana, cotton etc. are taking place in this region which does not fit into the rainfall pattern or to the ground water storage available. This region is more suitable for fruits, vegetable and cultivation of crops with less water requirement through precession application of water.
Food security is the supreme national priority and loss in cultivation of rice due to overexploitation of ground water in the Coastal South and Western India has to be more than compensated in high rainfall regions of Eastern and Coastal India. In the East and North East India ground water resources are under-utilized to the tune of 58-82% and also blessed with sufficient rainfall. Rice is a staple diet in major parts of India and food security at the country level can be ensured by enhancing its productivity and production in the most befitting agro-ecologies in the Eastern and Coastal regions with high rainfall and vast resources of under-utilized ground water. In addition, non-availability of irrigation water when required by farmers is also one of the reasons for over exploitation of ground water. Various issue involved in crop diversification are relatively complex and need to be addressed with due consideration of all aspects. Proper management strategies for ensuring availability of irrigation water on demand may help in addressing the issues to a great extent.
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2.6.5 Water Quality Issues The Water Quality is being monitored by several agencies in the country. The Central Water
Commission and Surface Water Agencies in respective states while developing water resources through various projects are mainly concerned with the requirements for irrigation and drinking water in terms of quantity and to some extent quality. The Central Ground Water Board (CGWB) and respective State Ground Water Agencies develop Ground Water resources depending upon the recharge potential with the similar objective. The Central Pollution Control Board and its State counterparts are mainly concerned with the monitoring of water quality deterioration and is responsible for prevention and control of pollution under Water Act, 1974 and Environment (Protection) Act, 1986. The National River Conservation Directorate (NRCD), under the Ministry of Environment and Forests, also monitors the Water Quality to evaluate the implementation of pollution abatement schemes for river conservation.
In view of the multiplicity of agencies involved in water quality management in the country with no virtual coordination among them, the problem of pollution of national water resources has become the matter of serious concern. To circumvent the situation, the Ministry of Environment and Forests has constituted ‘Water Quality Assessment Authority’ (WQAA) with effect from 29th May, 2001 through a Gazette Notification dated 22nd June, 2001. The Authority is empowered to exercise the powers under section 5 of the Environment (Protection) Act, 1986 for issuing directions and for taking measures with respect to matters referred to in clauses (ix), (xi), (xii) and (xiii) of subsection 2 of section 3 of the Environment (Protection) Act, 1986. The Authority has a coordination cell in the Ministry of Water Resources. The powers and functions of ‘Water Quality Assessment Authority’ (WQAA) include the powers to issue necessary directions to various government / local bodies / non-governmental agencies to standardize water quality monitoring methods, ensure proper treatment of wastewater to restore the water quality of surface and ground waters, take up R&D activities related to water management and promote recycling and reuse of treated wastewater and to maintain minimum discharge for sustenance of aquatic life forms in riverine system.
Central Ground Water Authority is also regulating indiscriminate withdrawal of ground water and issues necessary regulatory directions with a view to preserve and protect the ground water quality.
Government of India has constituted National Ganga River Basin Authority (NGRBA) for addressing the problems of pollution of river Ganga.
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2.7 FUTURE CHALLENGES 2.7.1 Growing Population and Increasing Demand of Water
As mentioned earlier, as a result of growing population, the per capita water availability is
reducing and at the same time the demand of water for various purposes is increasing and the per capita water availability is decreasing.
Increasing population has resulted in growing water demand, particularly for meeting the
requirements of drinking water and food production.
The present level of water utilization has been estimated to be about 690 BCM out of which about 83% is utilized for irrigation, 5% each for domestic uses and industrial uses and rest for other purposes. The “National Commission for Integrated Water Resources Development (NCIWRD)” has assessed the projected demand for water for the years 2010, 2025 and 2050. NCIWRD has made assessment both for low and high demand scenario in the year 2050. The total water requirement for meeting the demand for various uses as assessed by NCIWRD is 973 BCM for the low demand scenario and 1180 BCM for the high demand scenario. While making the assessment, NCIWRD has assumed that efficient management practices would be adopted and fully implemented and in particular, the present level of efficiency of the surface water and ground water systems would be enhanced to achieve the optimum level of efficiency in a phased manner.
The projected demand of water for various purposes under high demand scenario for the year 2010, 2025 and 2050 is indicated in Table – 7.
Table-7: Projected Demand for Water for Various Uses (in BCM)
Use
Year 2010 Year 2025 Year 2050 Projected Demand
% of total
demand
Projected Demand
% of total
demand
Projected Demand
% of total
demand
Irrigation 557 78% 611 72% 807 68% Domestic 43 6% 62 7% 111 9% Industries 37 5% 67 8% 81 7% Environment 5 1% 10 1% 20 2% Others 68 10% 93 12% 161 14%
Total 710 100% 843 100% 1180 100%
2.7.2 Competing Demand of Water for Various Sectors
The requirement of water for different purposes would change with time, mainly in view of economic development as may be seen from the percentage distribution of requirement. The share of requirement of domestic water is projected to grow from 7% in 2025 to 9% in 2050 reflecting larger urbanization. Urban areas require water round the year in specific locations. Requirement for
16
agriculture, on the other hand, is spread all over the country but concentrated in specific time periods. Although the requirement for irrigation water would increase over the time, the share of irrigation water in the overall demand has estimated to reduce from the present level of 83% to about 69%. Water requirement for industry and power would be more or less even over the year but will depend upon the location of industries and power plants. As laid down in the National Water Policy, the requirement of drinking water for both human beings and animals should be first charge on any available water.
2.7.3 Impact of Climate Change on Water Resources The effect of global warming on hydrological cycle could result in further intensification of
temporal and spatial variations in precipitation, snowmelt and water availability. Some of the possible identified implication of climate change on water resources are: (a)
decline in the glaciers and the snowfields in the Himalayas, (b) increased drought like situations due overall decrease in the number of rainy days over a major part of the country, (c) increased flood events due to overall increase in the rainy day intensity, (d) effect on ground water quality in alluvial aquifers due to increased flood and drought events, (e) influence on ground water recharge due to changes in precipitation and evapo-transpiration, and (f) increased saline intrusion of coastal and island aquifers due to rising sea levels.
Government of India has announced “National Action Plan on Climate Change” which inter-
alia envisages institutionalization of “National Water Mission”. Various issues and their correlation are illustrated in Figure – 4.
17
Challe
nges
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o
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. –
4:
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cy
18
Chapter – III
KEY STAKEHOLDERS AND THEIR ROLES
Water sector has very large stakeholders which inter-alia includes Several Ministries / Departments of the Union Government, State Governments Departments, Panchayati Raj Institutions, Urban Local Bodies, Industries and NGOs. In additions, the research organizations and academic institutions have also major role to play. However, most of the activities related to planning, development and management of water resources are undertaken by the respective State Governments. In this regard, the constitutional provisions are as under.
3.1 CONSTITUTIONAL PROVISIONS
Water is included in the State list (List 2) of 7th schedule of the Constitution of India and
hence all activities related to planning, development and management of water resources are undertaken by the respective States. Further, the Constitution provides for regulation and development of inter-State rivers and river valleys by the Union Government to the extent to which such regulation is declared by Parliament by Law to be expedient in public interest.
Box-1: Entries Related to Water in State and Union Lists
A “River Board Act” has been enacted for integrated management of inter-State rivers.
However, no River Board has been established for integrated planning, development and management of water resources of the river basin due to lack of consensus among co-basin States. Central organizations such as Brahmaputra Board, Narmada Control Authority, Damodar valley
Entry 17 of List II (State List) of the 7th Schedule
“Water, that is to say, water supplies, irrigation and canals, drainage and embankments, water storage and water power subject to provisions of entry 56 of List I.”
Entry 56 of List I (Union List) of the 7th Schedule
“Regulation and development of inter-state rivers and river valleys to the extent to which such regulation and development under the control of the Union is declared by Parliament by law to be expedient in the public interest.”
19
Corporation, Bhakhara Beas Management Board, Betwa River Board, Bansagar Board and Tungabhadra Board have been established for specific purposes to plan, manage and regulate the water resources in specified river basins.
Box-2: Article 262 of the Constitution
The Inter-State issues are generally addressed through mutual agreements among the co-basin States and the Government of India facilitates such agreement. We have about 125 Inter-State agreements which have facilitated the water resources development of Inter-State basins. However, in case of non-agreement, the disputes are adjudicated as per Article 262 of the Constitution. “Inter-State River Water Dispute Act” enacted under Article 262, provides for setting up of Tribunal for adjudication of disputes. At the moment, four Tribunals for Cauvery, Krishna, Ravi-Beas and Vanshdhara rivers have been established.
There is a “National Water Resources Council” for laying down National Water Policy and evolving consensus on water related issues among States. The Hon’ble Prime Minister is the Chairman and all Chief Ministers of the States are its members. There is also a National Water Board under the chairmanship of Secretary (WR) for evolving consensus on water related issues and to assist the National Water Resources Council. The water related issues were also considered by the Commission on Centre State Relations and the recommendations of the Commission are as under. 3.2 RECOMMENDATIONS OF THE COMMISSION ON CENTRE-STATE RELATIONS
The Government of India had constituted a Commission on Centre-State Relations under the Chairmanship of Justice Madan Mohan Punchhi, former Chief Justice of India, with the mandate to review a comprehensive set of issues concerning Centre-State relations and to make
Disputes relating to Water - Adjudication of disputes relating to waters of inter-State rivers or river valleys 1. Parliament may by law provide for the adjudication
of any dispute or complaint with respect to the use, distribution or control of the waters of, or in, any inter-State river or river valley.
2. Notwithstanding anything in this Constitution, Parliament may by law provide that neither the Supreme Court nor any other court shall exercise jurisdiction in respect of any such dispute or complaint as is referred to in clause (1).
20
recommendation thereon. The Commission on Centre-State relations, inter-alia, addressed the issues related to inter-State water dispute and specific recommendation in respect of water resources are as under:
The National Water Resources Council needs to play a greater role in integrating policy and
programmes on a continuous basis. This could be done by providing the Council with a core
expert body with an Adviser at its helm, so that executive action on the basis of its
recommendations is monitored.
A hierarchical but coordinated set of watershed agencies need to be set up by joint action of
the Centre and States and participation of local bodies with inter- State basins as the focus.
The overall responsibility for coordination would be that of the Inter-State River Basin
Authority set up by the Central Government under River Boards Act, 1956.
Tribunals constituted under the Inter-State Water Disputes Act, 1956 should be
multidisciplinary bodies, presided over by a Judge. It should follow a participatory and
conciliatory approach. The statute should prescribe a time limit for clarificatory or
supplementary orders. Appeals to the Supreme Court should be prescribed under the
Statute.
Disputes referred to a Tribunal should invariably be linked to constitution of Inter-State River
Boards, charged with the responsibility for an integrated watershed approach towards inter-
State rivers.
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Chapter – IV
ROLE OF UNION MINISTRY OF WATER RESOURCES
4.1 FUNCTIONS The functions of Ministry of Water Resources as outlined in the Allocation of Business Rules are as under.
Development, conservation and management of water as a national resource; overall national perspective of water planning and coordination in relation to diverse uses of water
National Water Resources Council
General Policy, technical assistance, research and development training and all matters relating to irrigation, including multi-purpose, major, medium, minor and emergency irrigation works, hydraulic structures for navigation and hydropower; tube wells and groundwater exploration and exploitation; protection and preservation of ground water resources; conjunctive use of surface and ground water, irrigation for agricultural purposes, water management, command area development; management of reservoirs and reservoir sedimentation; flood (control) management, drainage, drought proofing, water logging and sea erosion problems; and dam safety.
Regulation and development of inter-State rivers and river valleys. Implementation of Awards of Tribunals through Schemes, River Boards.
Water Laws, legislation.
Water quality assessment.
International organizations, commissions and conferences relating to water resources development and International Water Law.
International Water Law.
Matters relating to rivers common to India and neighbouring countries; the Joint Rivers Commission with Bangladesh; the Indus Waters Treaty 1960; the Permanent Indus Commission.
Bilateral and external assistance and cooperation programmes in the field of water resources development.
4.2 ORGANISATIONS UNDER THE MINISTRY OF WATER RESOURCES Attached Offices
Central Water Commission (CWC)
Central Soil and Material Research Station (CSMRS)
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Subordinate Offices
Ganga Flood Control Commission (GFCC)
Farakka Barrage Project (FBP)
Central Water and Power Research Station (CWPRS)
Central Ground Water Board (CGWB)
Bansagar Control Board
Sardar Sarovar Construction Advisory Committee (SSCAC)
Upper Yamuna River Board (UYRB) Public Sector Undertaking
Water and Power Consultancy Services (India) Limited (WAPCOS)
National Projects Construction Corporation Limited (NPCC) Autonomous Bodies
National Institute of Hydrology (NIH)
National Water Development Agency (NWDA) Statutory Bodies
Narmada Control Authority (NCA)
Brahmaputra Board (BB)
Betwa River Board
Tungabhadra Board 4.3 PLAN SCHEMES OF MINISTRY OF WATER RESOURCES
During the XI Plan, 15 central sector schemes and 5 State sector schemes have been
identified for implementation under Ministry of Water Resources. Salient features of the Plan schemes are described as under.
Development of Water Resources Information System - The main objective of the scheme is to put in place a web enabled water resources information system, which is planned to be launched by the end of the year 2010 and to be made fully operational in about 4 years. Except for data of classified nature, all information would be in public domain. The web enabled system is being implemented by CWC and ISRO. Collection of hydrological data and minor irrigation census are also supported under the scheme. The scheme also includes provision for monitoring of major & medium schemes and activities related to water quality assessment.
23
Hydrology Project - Hydrology project is a World Bank supported project and provides for consolidation of activities of the first phase of Hydrology project and also for taking up activities in 4 new States making a total of 13 States. Specific activities are also supported in respect of 8 central agencies including Ministry of Water Resources. Important activities include development of “Hydrological Design Aids” and “Decision Support Systems”.
Ground Water Management and Regulation – Various activities related to ground water exploration, monitoring of ground water level & ground water quality and studies are supported under this scheme.
Investigation Water Resources Development Schemes – The scheme provides for undertaking investigations and preparation of feasibility report and detailed project report (DPR) for various identified links under National Perspective Plan (NPP) by NWDA and preparation of pre-feasibility / feasibility reports of the intra-state links proposed by the State governments by NWDA. The scheme also provides for investigation & preparation of DPR of specific schemes particularly in North East Region by Central Water Commission.
Research and Development – Research and development activities of three research organizations namely, Central Water and Power Research Station, Pune, National Institute of Hydrology, Roorkee and Central Soil and Material Research Station, New Delhi and that of CWC in the identified thrust area are supported under this scheme. The research proposals received from academic institutions, research organizations and NGOs are also supported. An important thrust area identified under the scheme is the impact of climate change on water resources.
“National Water Academy” and “Rajiv Gandhi National Ground Water Training and Research institute” – Training programme of in-service professionals from States and Central Government organizations including those from organizations under MoWR are organized by National Water Academy and Rajiv Gandhi National Ground Water Training and Research institute in the specialized areas. These institutions also organize training programme for Panchayati Raj Institutions and other local bodies.
Information, Education and Communication – In view of the importance and need for creating awareness about water related issues, this scheme has been included during XI Plan by MoWR.
Pagladiya Dam Project – Pagladiya Dam Project has been planned to protect area of about 40,000 ha in Nalbari district of Assam from recurring flood of river Pagladiya. The scheme also envisages irrigation to about 54,000 ha and generation of 3 MW of hydropower as incidental benefit. However, there has been very little progress due to delay in Zirat survey to be undertaken by the Government of Assam.
Farraka Barrage Project – This scheme provides for maintenance of the Barrage, feeder canal and other facilities. Anti-erosion works are also undertaken under the scheme.
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Dam Safety Studies and Planning – Under this scheme specific studies including preparation of PMP Atlas, and planing for instrumentation etc. are undertaken by Central Water Commission.
River Basin Organization / Authority – With a view to encourage integrated water resources management by co-basin states, a new scheme “River Basin Organization / Authority” has been included during XI Plan for establishment of RBOs in consultation with the co-basin States.
Flood Forecasting – Central Water Commission maintains a network of 145 flood forecasting and 28 inflow forecasting stations. The Plan scheme “Flood Forecasting” envisages strengthening and modernization of the system with a view to improve the accuracy of forecast and increase warning time. Implementation of telemetry system for online transmission of the observed data from all base and forecasting stations are envisaged.
River Management Activities and Work related to Border Rivers – Under this scheme, provision has been made for various plan activities of Brahmaputra Board and Ganga Flood Control Commission. The scheme also provides for investigation and planning for projects in Nepal and the flood control measures on border rivers.
Infrastructure Development – This scheme “Infrastructure Development” has been taken up for modernization of office building, laboratories etc. of the Ministry and its various organizations.
Accelerated Irrigation Benefit Programme (AIBP) – Government of India launched the Accelerated Irrigation Benefits Programme (AIBP) during 1996-97 under which initially loan assistance was provided to States. The programme has undergone a number of changes since its inception. At present, central assistance is provided to States under AIBP in respect of major, medium and extension, renovation and modernization (ERM) irrigation projects which are: (i) at advanced stage of construction and can be completed in next four financial years; (ii) duly accorded investment clearances by Planning Commission; and (iii) not receiving any other form of financial assistances. New projects can be included under the programme only on completion of an on-going project on one to one basis except for projects benefitting (i) drought prone areas, (ii) tribal areas, (iii) States with lower irrigation development as compared to National average, and (iv) districts identified under the ‘PM Package for Agrarian Distress Districts’. Surface minor irrigation schemes (both new as well as ongoing) of the States of north eastern region, States of hilly region (Himachal, Sikkim, Jammu and Kashmir and Uttarakhand) and drought prone KBK districts of Orissa which are approved by State TAC / State Planning Board are eligible for assistance under the programme provided that (i) individual schemes benefit irrigation potential of at least 20 hectare and group of schemes (within a radius of 5 km) benefit total ultimate irrigation
25
potential of at least 50 hectare, (ii) proposed minor irrigation schemes have benefit cost ratio of more than on, and (iii) the development of cost of these schemes per hectare is less than Rs one lakh. For non-special category States, only those minor irrigation schemes with potential more than 50 hectares which tribal areas and drought prone areas may be included under AIBP. Central assistance at the rate of 90% project cost in case of project benefitting special category States, drought prone areas, tribal areas and flood prone areas and 25% of the project cost of project benefitting other areas of non-special category States is provided.
Flood Management Programme – Under the State sector scheme “Flood Management Programme”, central assistance is provided to State Governments for taking up measures for flood control and anti-erosion (including sea erosion works).
Repair, Renovation and Restoration of Water Bodies – The scheme “Repair, Renovation and Restoration of Water Bodies” envisages restoration and augmentation of the irrigation potential of water bodies. A total of about one lakh water bodies are planned to be provided assistance for renovation under domestic component. Central assistance is also envisaged for water bodies being renovated under externally assisted project.
Dam Rehabilitation and Improvement Project – A scheme for Dam Rehabilitation and Improvement Project has been planned for implementation with World Bank assistance. The scheme is under negotiation with World Bank and is yet to be approved.
Command Area Development and Water Management – Under scheme “Command Area Development and Water Management” assistance is provided to States for on-farm development works with a view to fully utilize the created irrigation potential at the earliest. The scheme also provides for training of farmers and field functionaries, R&D and institutional support to WUAs.
4.4 STRENGTHS OF MINISTRY OF WATER RESOURCES
The strengths of the Ministry of Water Resources are summarized as under.
The Ministry of Water Resources has fully equipped apex organizations in specialized areas of water resources to address the related issues which include:
- Central Water Commission in areas of planning, design and monitoring of water
resources systems; - Central Ground Water Board in respect of investigation and research in ground water
development and planning; - National Institute of Hydrology in areas of research and development on all aspects of
hydrology;
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- Central Water & Power Research Station, a premier organization in the area of hydraulic engineering research particularly on physical modeling of hydraulic structures;
- Central Soil & Materials Research Station for conducting investigation and research in respect of soils and materials to be used in planning and design of all types of structures;
- Ganga Flood Control Commission in respect of planning and monitoring of flood control schemes in Ganga basin; and
- Brahmaputra Board in respect of planning and monitoring of flood control projects in Brahmaputra basin.
Network of key hydrological observation stations for assessment of the characteristics for surface water and ground water in the country are maintained by CWC and CGWB
The CWC and NWDA have expertise in field investigations for water resources projects carried out by field units of CWC and NWDA. WAPCOS also undertakes the works related to planning, design of water resources projects within the country and abroad.
Various organizations, particularly CWC, Betwa River Board, Bansagar Control Board, Sardar Sarover Construction Advisory Committee, Narmada Control Authority are actively involved in monitoring of the ongoing projects. These organizations along with Upper Yamuna River Board also play vital advisory role in optimal planning of the resources.
The reputed research organizations under the Ministry of Water Resources namely, CWPRS, NIH, CSMRS and CGWB are actively involved in the research and development activities and provide guidance and advice to almost all the States in respective areas.
Ministry has two dedicated institute namely National Water Academy, Pune and Rajiv Gandhi National Ground Water Training and Research Institute, Raipur for providing training to the water resources professionals of States and central Ministries / Departments. In addition, various research institutes also organize training courses on specialized areas.
The Ministry has a team of competent professionals who are duly qualified and experienced in different aspects of water resources planning, management and development, particularly from the view point of planning and management of water resources from national perspective.
Highly neutral and unbiased approach in addressing the water resources issues.
Ministry and its organizations have thorough understanding of the various issues in proper perspective and in identifying the most appropriate solution for the various issues related to water resources development and management including those of inter-State nature.
Ministry has excellent capability in addressing the trans-boundary issues especially with rivers shared with neighbouring countries.
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4.5 WEAKNESSES OF THE MINISTRY OF WATER RESOURCES
Despite considerable strengths of the Ministry of Water Resources, the Ministry has certain limitations which may affect the implementation of several policies and programmes for addressing the future challenges. Some of the weaknesses of the Ministry of Water Resources are as under.
There is no mechanism at working level for effective coordination amongst various departments / agencies associated with water resources.
The organizations under the Ministry comprise mainly the engineers and scientists who effectively address the technical aspects. There is no in-house system for addressing the environmental, social and other related aspects of planning and management of water resources.
The public interaction and participatory approach to planning and decision making process is relatively poor. There is urgent need for putting in place an appropriate mechanism in this regard.
The role of the Ministry and its organizations is in general “advisory” in nature which is not adequate for ensuring effective implementation of the policies and programmes for addressing the future challenges.
There is inadequate attention towards capacity building and collaborative international partnership for sharing of knowledge and expertise.
Advisory role of the Ministry and its organizations is not adequate for ensuring effective implementation of the policies and programmes for addressing the future challenges.
The Ministry has a limited role in water management aspects, as the present field set up is inadequate and not oriented in this direction.
There is inadequate monitoring to identify water quality problems in different parts and lack of laboratories equipped with State-of-Art equipment for water quality analysis.
There is lack of policy for addressing various aspects related to human resources management.
4.6 MEASURES FOR ADDRESSING FUTURE CHALLENGES From earlier discussions, it is evident that coordinated actions are required to address the future challenges in the water sector with active participation of State Governments, Central Government and other stakeholders. This calls for necessary measures through effective utilization of the strengths of the Ministry of Water Resources and by overcoming its weaknesses. While providing professional assistance to States and other stakeholders in sustainable development and efficient management of water resources, two specific for the Central Government relate to (i) resolution of inter-State and trans-boundary issues, and (ii) evolving plan for optimal utilization of water resources with due consideration to the growing demands for different sectors.
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Chapter – V
STRATEGIC PLAN FOR MINISTRY OF WATER RESOURCES –VISION, MISSION AND OBJECTIVES
Vision Optimal sustainable development, maintenance of quality and efficient use of water resources to match with the growing demands on this precious natural resource of the country Mission
To develop policies, programmes and practices, which would enable the efficient and effective use of the country’s water resources in an equitable and sustainable manner with active involvement of all stakeholders
To develop policies, programmes and practices, which would enable mitigation of floods and control the river bank and coastal erosions
To put into place systems and practices, which would result in sustained increase in water use efficiency
To actively engage with the neighbouring countries and the international community for the harmonious development and utilization of water resources
To disseminate information, skills and knowledge, which would help in capacity building and mass awareness
Objectives
Accelerating irrigation development / stabilizing created facilities
Utilization of created irrigation potential
Flood management
Data acquisition and resource assessment
Investigation for water resources projects
Research and development
Promoting policies and programmes for harnessing the untapped water wealth of the country in a sustainable manner
Promoting conservation of water resources through reservoirs, traditional water conservation systems, rainwater harvesting and ground water recharge to address the high temporal variations in the availability of water in the country
Bringing benefits of water resources development to water scarce areas through transfer of surplus flood water from other basins
Taking up programmes for increasing the water use efficiency
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Engaging in active ‘water diplomacy’ for mutually beneficial use of water resources of inter-national rivers shared with neighbouring countries for overall economic development in the region
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Chapter – VI
KEY PRIORITIES AND STRATEGIES
From the foregoing discussions, it would be observed that the water sector in the country
faces numerous challenges which are required to be addressed on priority. As mentioned in Chapter – II, various issues can be categorized under five serious challenges as under.
a. Challenges due to growing demand of water for various purposes b. Environmental concerns and water quality deterioration c. Non-optimal utilization of created facilities d. Flood problems e. Inadequate research and development support, capacity building and mass awareness
The draft Mission Document for “National Water Mission” addresses various issues related
to water resources and the five goals identified to address the problems are as under.
Goal I - Comprehensive water data base in public domain and assessment of the impact of climate change on water resources
Goal II - Promotion of citizen and State actions for water conservation, augmentation and preservation
Goal III - Focused attention on vulnerable area including over-exploited areas Goal IV - Increasing water use efficiency by 20% Goal V - Promotion of basin level integrated water resources management Various strategies for achieving the above mentioned five goals have also been identified in
the draft Mission Document of “National Water Mission”. Various strategies are at Annexure – II. Important action plans for addressing the future challenges are illustrated in Figure – 5. Various strategies identified in the in the draft Mission Document of “National Water Mission” cover the actions which are required to be taken by the respective State Governments and also the Central Ministries / Departments concerned i.e., Ministry of Agriculture, Ministry of Urban Development, Ministry of Rural Development, Ministry of Environment and Forests, Ministry of Commerce and Industry, and Ministry of Panchayati Raj.
However, it remains a fact that the country has very wide variations in availability of water
resources, demand of water for various purposes and the level of development from one region to the other. Therefore, it would be necessary to keep the option of implementation of all possible measures to address the specific issues of particular region for the benefit of the people of the area and also in overcoming specific problems of the region. Thus various activities have to be continued in varying scales in one region or the other for meeting the specific requirements of the region. Therefore, in the “Strategic Plan of the Ministry of Water Resources”, emphasis has been
31
laid on identification of the key areas which would remain in focus during the period up to the end of XII Plan. The identified key areas are as under:
Optimal utilization of water resources through (a) full utilization of the created facilities, (b) improvement in efficiency and (c) physical and financial sustainability of the created facilities.
Systematic approach for coping with flood with due emphasis on utilization of surplus flood water for meeting the various requirements.
Intensive programme for research and development, training and mass awareness.
Specific activities identified to be undertaken are as under.
Sl. No.
Key Areas Identified Strategies
1 Optimal utilization of water resources through (a) full utilization of the created facilities, (b) improvement in efficiency and (c) physical and financial sustainability of the created facilities.
- Adequate provision for operation and maintenance of water resources projects.
- Promote water regulatory authorities for ensuring equitable water distribution and rational charges for water facilities.
- Expeditious completion of command area development works
- Promote participatory irrigation management.
- Expeditious implementation of water resources projects particularly the multipurpose projects with carry over storages benefiting drought prone and rain deficient areas.
- Promotion of traditional system of water conservation.
- Research in area of increasing water use efficiency and maintaining its quality in agriculture, industry and domestic sector.
- Undertake pilot projects for improvement in water use efficiency in collaboration with States.
- Research in area of increasing water use efficiency and maintaining its quality in agriculture, industry and domestic sector.
- Undertake pilot projects for improvement in water use efficiency in collaboration with States.
- Incentivize use of efficient irrigation practices.
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- Promote mandatory water audit including those for drinking water purposes.
- Planning on the principle of integrated water resources development and management.
- Sensitization of elected representatives of over-exploited areas on dimensions of the problems and to orient investment under MNREGP towards water conservation.
- Physical sustainability of groundwater resources
- Intensive programme for ground water recharge in over-exploited, critical and semi-critical areas.
- Incentive through award for water conservation and efficient use of water.
2 Systematic approach for coping with flood with due emphasis on utilization of surplus flood water for meeting the various requirements.
Addressing the flood problems in systemic manners by considering all possible options including :
- Creation of sufficient storages by providing sufficient flood cushion in the existing Reservoirs to moderate the flood peaks;
- Undertaking new storage schemes to store flood waters during monsoon;
- Diversion of flood water to water deficit areas through inter linking projects;
- Early resolution on implementation of Bilateral Projects in neighboring countries namely Nepal, Bhutan, Bangladesh and North Easter regions; and
- Modernization and Expansion of flood forecasting system.
3 Intensive programme for research and development, training and mass awareness.
- Review and establishment of network for collection of additional necessary data.
- Development of water resources information system.
- Development / implementation of modern technology for measurement of various data.
- Intensive research and studies particularly on (a) all aspects related to impact of climate change on water resources including quality aspects of water resources with active collaboration of all research organizations working in the area of climate change, and (b)
33
management issues of water resources - Projection of the impact of climate change on
water resources. - Intensive programme for training of
professional of State Governments and Central Ministries / Departments
- Expansion of mass awareness programme
The following quantitative outputs have been identified to be achieved by Ministry of Water Resources up to the end of XII Plan.
Launching the Water Resources Information System (WRIS) in the public domain (with all data except data of sensitive and classified nature) by November 2010 and making the WRIS fully operational by 2012.
The initial projections of the impact of climate change on water resources including the likely changes in the water availability in time and space are targeted by the year 2012.
Sensitization of all Panchayat members and their functionaries in dark and grey blocks will be completed by 2012.
Comprehensive assessment of ground water in the country will be made by March 2011.
Revision of master plan for artificial recharge to ground water for the entire country and putting the same in public domain by September 2011
All over-exploited areas to be covered by recharge of ground water by the end of XII Five Year Plan.
Water use efficiency would be increased by 20% by the year 2017.
Reducing the gap of about 15% between the irrigation potential created and the irrigation potential utilized by half by the year 2017.
Review of the National Water Policy by 2011 to move towards basin development
Guidelines for different uses of water to be completed by March 2012.
It may be mentioned that the following three important actions are presently in progress.
Review of National Water Policy
prepare an integrated policy for water resource management
Formulation of XII Five Year Plan
The outcome of the above actions would have to be appropriately addressed in the Strategic Plan. Therefore, the priorities and identified strategies would require a review from time to time.
34
Addre
ssin
gth
e g
row
ing
dem
and o
f w
ate
r fo
r dom
est
ic,
indust
rial and
irrigation
requirem
ent
Ensu
ring
Optim
al
Utilis
ation
of
Cre
ate
d
Faci
litie
s
Environm
ent
and w
ate
r qualit
y
managem
ent
Flo
od
Managem
ent
Expandin
g
R&
D a
nd
capaci
ty
build
ing
Inte
gra
ted
river
basi
n
mast
er
pla
n
incl
udin
g t
hat
for
floods
Fig
. –
5:
Acti
on
Pla
n
Pro
mote
public
/sta
ke h
old
ers
part
icip
ation,
enco
ura
ge f
orm
ation
of W
UA
Inte
nsi
ve R
ese
arc
h &
D
evelo
pm
ent
pro
ject
s•C
limate
Change
•Eff
icie
ncy
im
pro
vem
ent
•Managem
ent
pra
ctic
es
Incr
ease
d
fundin
g
on w
ate
r re
sourc
es
pro
ject
s
Com
mand A
rea
Develo
pm
ent
&
Wate
r M
anagem
ent,
on-
farm
develo
pm
ent
work
s
Rest
ora
tion o
f irrigation p
ote
ntial
of old
sy
stem
/pro
ject
s,
ERM
work
s
Incr
easi
ng
wate
r use
eff
icie
ncy
Educa
te a
nd
est
ablis
h p
ublic
aw
are
ness
pro
gra
mm
e
Expansi
on
and
modern
izatio
n o
f flood
fore
cast
ing &
w
arm
ing
netw
ork
Flo
od p
lain
zo
nin
g
legis
lation &
enfo
rcem
en
t
Regula
ting
gro
und w
ate
r over
explic
ation
and p
rom
oting
conju
nct
ive u
se
of w
ate
r
Morp
holo
gic
al st
udy o
f rivers
Ensu
ring m
inim
um
flow
in r
ivers
to
main
tain
riv
er
health
Coord
inatio
n w
ith s
tate
G
ovt.
and
various
Min
istr
ies/
Agenci
es
involv
ed in
WRD
Flo
od
cush
ion o
n
exis
ting a
nd
new
re
serv
oirs
Str
uct
ura
l m
easu
res
for
flood
pro
tect
ion
Sust
ain
able
D
evelo
pm
ent
of a
vaila
ble
W
ate
r Reso
urc
es
Adequate
re
sourc
e f
or
O&
M
Availa
bili
ty o
f data
in p
ublic
dom
ain
-WRIS
Div
ers
ion o
f su
rplu
s flood
wate
rs for
various
use
s
Sett
ing u
p o
f RBO
s
Enfo
rcem
ent
and
Main
tain
ing
river
wate
r qualit
y
Pro
per
environm
enta
l im
pact
ass
ess
ment and
mitig
ation
measu
res
35
Annexure –I
BASIN-WISE AVERAGE ANNUAL WATER AVAILABILITY
Sl. No.
River Basin Average Annual Water Availability
(in BCM)
1. Indus 73.31 2. Ganga-Brahmaputra-Barak a. Ganga sub-basin 525.02
b. Brahmaputra & Barak sub-basin 585.60
3. Godavari 110.54 4. Krishna 78.12 5. Cauvery 21.36 6. Pennar 6.32 7. East Flowing Rivers between Mahanadi and
Pennar 22.52
8. East Flowing Rivers between Pennar and Kanyakumari
16.46
9. Mahanadi 66.88 10. Brahmani and Baitarni 28.48 11. Subarnrekha 12.37 12. Sabarmati 3.81 13. Mahi 11.02 14. West Flowing Rivers of Kutchh,
Saurashtra including Luni 15.10
15. Narmada 45.64 16. Tapi 14.88 17. West Flowing Rivers from Tapi to Tadri 87.41
18. West Flowing Rivers from Tadri to Kanyakumari
113.53
19. Area of Inland Drainage in Rajasthan Desert Negligible 20. Minor River Basins Draining into
Bangladesh and Myanmar 31.00
Total 1869.37
36
Annexure – II
GOALS AND STRATEGIES IDENTIFIED UNDER NATIONAL WATER MISSION
Goal I- Comprehensive water data base in public domain and assessment of the impact of climate change on water resource
Sl. No.
Strategies
I.1 Review and establishment of network for collection of additional necessary data
I.2 Development of water resources information system
I.3 Development / implementation of modern technology for measurement of various data
I.4 Developing inventory of wetland
I.5 Research and studies on all aspects related to impact of climate change on water resources including quality aspects of water resources with active collaboration of all research organizations working in the area of climate change
I.6 Reassessment of basin wise water situation
I.7 Projection of the impact of climate change on water resources
Goal II - Promotion of citizen and state action for water conservation, augmentation and
preservation
Sl. No. Strategies
II.1 Empowerment and involvement of Panchayati Raj Institutions, urban local bodies, Water Users’ Associations and primary stake holders in management of water resources with focus on water conservation, augmentation and preservation
II.2 Promote participatory irrigation management
II.3 Sensitization of elected representatives of over-exploited areas on dimensions of the problems and to orient investment under MNREGP towards water conservation
II.4 Provide incentives for water neutral and water positive technologies in industry
II.5 Encourage participation of NGOs in various activities related to water resources management, particularly in planning, capacity building and mass awareness
II.6 Involve and encourage corporate sector / industries to take up support and promote water conservation, augmentation and preservation within the industry and part of corporate social responsibility
37
Goal III - Focused attention to vulnerable areas including over-exploited areas
Sl. No.
Strategies
III.1 Expeditious implementation of water resources projects particularly the multipurpose projects with carry over storages benefiting drought prone and rain deficient areas.
III.2 Promotion of traditional system of water conservation
III.3 Physical sustainability of groundwater resources
III.4 Intensive programme for ground water recharge in over-exploited, critical and semi-critical areas
III.5 Conservation and preservation of wetland
III.6 Intensive programme for addressing the quality aspects of drinking water particularly in rural area
III.7 Promotion of water purification and desalination
III.8 Systematic approach for coping with floods
Goal IV - Increasing water use efficiency by 20%
Sl. No.
Strategies
IV.1 Research in area of increasing water use efficiency and maintaining its quality in agriculture, industry and domestic sector
IV.2 Incentivize recycling of water including wastewater
IV.3 Development of Eco-friendly sanitation system
IV.4 Improve efficiency of urban water supply system
IV.5 Efficiency labeling of water appliances and fixtures
IV.6 Promotion of water efficient techniques and technologies
IV.7 Undertake Pilot projects for improvement in water use efficiency in collaboration with States
IV.8 Promote Water Regulatory Authorities for ensuring equitable water distribution and rational charges for water facilities
IV.9 Promote mandatory water audit including those for drinking water purposes
IV.10 Adequate provision for operation & maintenance of water resources projects
IV.11 Incentive through award for water conservation & efficient use of water
IV.12 Incentivize use of efficient irrigation practices
38
Goal V - Promotion of basin level and integrated water resources management
Sl. No.
Strategies
V.1 Review of National Water Policy
V.2 Review of State Water Policy
V.3 Guidelines for different uses of water e.g., irrigation, drinking, industrial etc. particularly in context of basin wise situations
V.4 Planning on the principle of integrated water resources development and management
V.5 Inter-basin integration particularly for augmenting water by converting surplus flood water into utilizable water
V.6 Ensuring convergence among various water resources programmes
