India is poised to revisit its National Water Policy, with the new water resources minister set to tackle outstanding issues surrounding the revision. This move comes amid a growing water crisis fueled by climate change and depleting groundwater levels. The government had initiated the process of revising the 2012 National Water Policy in 2021, establishing a drafting committee to address pressing challenges within the water sector. However, the draft has been stalled due to various obstacles.
Addressing the issue during the curtain raiser of the 8th International Water Week (scheduled between September 17-21), Debashree Mukherjee, Water Resources Secretary, stated that the revised policy will be a priority for the new minister. “There were some issues related to the revision of the National Water Policy 2012. We will take it up with the new minister to look at the way forward,” she explained.
The urgency of the revision is underscored by the escalating impacts of climate change, manifesting in extreme weather events and dwindling groundwater reserves. A World Bank study predicts that water scarcity could cripple India’s economic growth, potentially leading to a 6% loss of GDP by 2050.
The National Water Policy plays a pivotal role in water management and conservation, addressing water scarcity, enhancing disaster resilience, and ensuring water access for vulnerable communities. To achieve these objectives, the government has implemented programs like the Atal Mission for Rejuvenation & Urban Transformation, Jal Jeevan Mission, Jal Shakti Abhiyan, and the National Water Mission.
While the International Water Week will see participation from 40 countries, including representatives from the World Water Council, World Bank, and Asian Development Bank, China and Bangladesh will not be attending. Bangladesh’s absence is attributed to the ongoing political situation in the country.
The event will bring together key stakeholders to discuss innovative solutions and forge partnerships to address the pressing water crisis, particularly in light of shifting monsoon patterns and the accelerating effects of climate change.
