Water Resources and Contemporary Challenges in India’s Foreign Policy [UGC NTA NET Political Science Notes]

Water resources are critical to India’s socio-economic fabric. They are essential for agriculture, drinking, sanitation, and industrial use. With 18% of the world’s population, India holds only 4% of its freshwater resources. Major rivers, including the Ganges, Yamuna, Brahmaputra, Indus, Godavari, Krishna, and Cauvery, play a vital role in sustaining life and economic activities. However, contemporary challenges threaten the sustainability of these resources, impacting both domestic policy and international relations.

Importance of Water Resources

Water is fundamental for various sectors:

• Agriculture: Irrigation is crucial for food production.
• Drinking Water: Access to clean water is a basic human right.
• Sanitation: Water is vital for hygiene and public health.
• Industry: Many industries rely on water for operations.

India’s major rivers support millions of livelihoods. However, the stark disparity between population and available freshwater resources raises concerns.

Water Scarcity

India faces water scarcity challenges:

1. Groundwater Depletion: Over-extraction has led to declining water tables.
2. Population Growth: Increasing demand exacerbates water shortages.
3. Urbanisation: Rapid urban growth increases water consumption.
4. Climate Change: Erratic rainfall and prolonged droughts disrupt water supply.

These factors contribute to a critical water crisis, necessitating urgent action.

Transboundary Water Issues

India shares several river systems with its neighbours:

• Pakistan: The Indus Water Treaty (1960) governs water sharing of the Indus River system.
• Bangladesh: Disputes exist over the Teesta River, impacting water availability.
• Nepal: Conflicts arise over the Karnali River’s water sharing.
• China: Concerns about upstream dam constructions affecting downstream flow.

These transboundary issues complicate diplomatic relations and require cooperative solutions.

Major River Basin Conflicts

Conflicts arise in several key river basins:

• Indus River Basin: Tensions with Pakistan over water allocation persist.
• Ganges-Brahmaputra Basin: Bangladesh raises concerns over Indian dam constructions affecting water flow.
• Krishna and Godavari Rivers: Disputes among states like Andhra Pradesh and Telangana hinder effective management.

These conflicts highlight the need for collaborative approaches to water governance.

International Treaties and Agreements

India has established several treaties regarding water sharing:

• Indus Water Treaty: A framework for sharing water resources with Pakistan.
• Ganges Water Sharing Agreement (1996): An agreement with Bangladesh for sharing Ganges water during lean seasons.
• Brahmaputra River Cooperation: Limited agreements with Bhutan and Bangladesh exist.

These agreements aim to mitigate conflicts and promote cooperative management.

Domestic Water Management Challenges

India faces several domestic challenges in water management:

• Inefficient Irrigation: Traditional practices lead to water wastage.
• Pollution: Industrial discharge and urban runoff contaminate rivers.
• Lack of Infrastructure: Inadequate water storage and distribution systems hinder access.

Addressing these challenges is crucial for sustainable water management.

Role of Technology and Innovation

Technology plays a very important role in addressing water issues:

• Satellite Technology: Used for monitoring water resources effectively.
• Rainwater Harvesting: Promotes conservation and efficient water use.
• Desalination: Emerging as a solution for coastal areas facing freshwater shortages.

Innovative practices can enhance water resource management.

Climate Change Impact

Climate change affects water resources:

• Altered Monsoon Patterns: Unpredictable rainfall impacts water availability.
• Increased Floods and Droughts: Extreme weather events disrupt water supply.
• Melting Glaciers: Himalayan glacier retreat affects river flows.

These changes necessitate adaptive management strategies.

Policy Responses

The Government of India has implemented several policies:

• National Water Policy (2012): Emphasises integrated water resource management.
• Jal Shakti Abhiyan: A campaign aimed at water conservation and management.
• River Rejuvenation Projects: Initiatives to restore polluted rivers and ecosystems.

These policies reflect a commitment to sustainable water management.

Regional Cooperation and Diplomacy

Cooperation is essential for sustainable water management:

• Cooperative Frameworks: Needed for effective transboundary water governance in South Asia.
• International Organisations: Engagement with bodies like the UN for best practices.
• Bilateral Talks: Ongoing discussions with neighbouring countries to resolve disputes amicably.

Diplomatic efforts can encourage peaceful relations and effective resource management.

Future Challenges

India faces several future challenges regarding water resources:

• Balancing Development and Sustainability: Need to reconcile economic growth with environmental protection.
• Socio-Political Dimensions: Addressing the complexities of water sharing among diverse communities.
• Equitable Access: Ensuring fair access to water resources across states and communities.

Addressing these challenges will require comprehensive strategies.

Key Statistics

About the scale of water issues in India is crucial:

These statistics tell the urgency of addressing water resource challenges in India.