Groundwater conservation : Response of legal and policy framework in india

Abstract

In India groundwater is an important and major source of water supply for industrial, agricultural and household purposes. The drinking water supply and irrigation schemes are largely depended on this groundwater. Several studies, reports and assessments carried out by different agencies revealed that the rate of depletion and contamination of groundwater is higher in several parts of the country. In India prevalent rules and regulations on water resources are very few and applicable only to the surface water. Certain State legislations on groundwater conservation are also in force but they are incapable of addressing the comprehensive groundwater conservation strategies because of several reasons. The transboundary impact of the groundwater depletion and contamination further necessitates a national legal framework. The dimensions of right to safe drinking water also appeals for a national legal framework. This study explores the legal and policy framework on groundwater conservation in India and also analyses the initiatives taken to reform the water law framework. The legislative capacity of the Parliament is found in Article 253 of the Constitution to frame a comprehensive water law framework which addresses the conservation and management of groundwater resources.