Examine the factors responsible for depleting groundwater in India. What are the steps taken by the government to mitigate such depletion of groundwater? (Answer in 250 words)

- Examine the factors responsible for depleting groundwater in India. What are the steps taken by the government to mitigate such depletion of groundwater? (Answer in 250 words)
Introduction
Groundwater is India’s largest source of freshwater, supporting over 60% of irrigation and 80% of domestic water needs. However, unsustainable extraction, inefficient usage, and weak regulation have led to alarming depletion, threatening agricultural and ecological sustainability.
Body
1. Factors Responsible for Groundwater Depletion:
- Over-Extraction for Irrigation: Free or subsidized electricity and easy access to borewells encourage excessive water pumping, especially for water-intensive crops like paddy and sugarcane.
- Declining Rainfall and Recharge: Erratic monsoons and reduced infiltration due to urbanization and deforestation limit natural replenishment.
- Urban and Industrial Demand: Rapid urbanization increases groundwater withdrawal for domestic and industrial purposes.
- Poor Regulatory Framework: Weak enforcement of groundwater laws and fragmented institutional coordination.
- Climate Change: Rising temperatures accelerate evapotranspiration, further straining aquifers.
2. Government Measures:
- Atal Bhujal Yojana (Atal Jal): Promotes community-led groundwater management in overexploited blocks.
- Jal Shakti Abhiyan: Focuses on rainwater harvesting, watershed development, and recharge structures.
- National Water Policy (2012): Emphasizes demand management and sustainable use.
- PM Krishi Sinchayee Yojana (PMKSY): Promotes “per drop, more crop” through micro-irrigation.
- Groundwater Regulation: Model Bills and Central Ground Water Board (CGWB) guidelines regulate extraction and promote aquifer mapping.
Conclusion
Groundwater depletion in India is a man-made crisis that demands technological, institutional, and behavioral reforms. Integrating community participation, water-efficient practices, and recharge initiatives is essential to ensure long-term water sustainability.