- Water scarcity is mainly caused by over-exploitation and unequal access to water, not just low rainfall.
- Rapid population growth increases the demand for water for domestic use and food production.
- Irrigated agriculture is the largest consumer of water resources.
- Excessive use of wells and tube-wells leads to a continuous fall in groundwater levels.
- Industrialisation and urbanisation put heavy pressure on limited freshwater resources.
- Water pollution from domestic, industrial, and agricultural wastes makes water unfit for use.
- Water conservation and proper management are essential to ensure health, food security, and environmental balance.
Definitions [1]
Definition: Dam
A dam is a barrier across flowing water that obstructs, directs or retards the flow, often creating a reservoir, lake or impoundment.
Key Points
Key Points: Water Conservation Practices > Rainwater Harvesting
- Rainwater harvesting is an eco-friendly method of collecting and storing rainwater to conserve water in India.
- It helps recharge groundwater, raise the water table, and improve water quality.
- Ancient communities developed region-specific harvesting methods based on rainfall, soil, and local needs.
- In hilly areas, channels like guls and kuls were used, while arid regions used khadins, johads, and tankas.
- Rooftop rainwater harvesting was widely practised, especially in Rajasthan, to store drinking water.
- Rainwater harvesting reduces floods, soil erosion, drain blockage, and surface runoff.
- It is compulsory in states such as Tamil Nadu and is widely used in places such as Shillong and Meghalaya, including in bamboo drip irrigation systems.
Key Points: Multi-Purpose River Projects
- Multi-purpose river projects use dams for irrigation, power, water supply, and flood control.
- Projects like Bhakra–Nangal and Hirakud use water for both irrigation and electricity.
- After Independence, dams were seen as symbols of national development.
- Large dams disturb river flow and aquatic ecosystems.
- Many dams have failed to control floods and caused environmental damage.
Key Points: Water Scarcity and Conservation
Key Points: Integrated Water Resources Management
- India has managed water since ancient times using dams, tanks, and canals.
- Ancient structures like Sringaverapura and Bhopal Lake show efficient water use.
- Integrated management aims to use water for multiple needs together.
- Poor water management causes pollution and ecological imbalance.
- Pradhan Mantri Krishi Sinchayee Yojana promotes efficient and sustainable water use.
Important Questions [3]
- Match the Column-A with Column-B and choose the correct option: Column-A(River) (a) Mahanadi, (b) Narmada, (c) Chambal, (d) Chenab
- Match Column I with Column II and choose the correct option. Column I(Dams) Column II(Rivers) i. Sardar Sarovar a. Sutlej ii. Hirakud b. Krishna iii. Bhakra Nangal c. Narmada
- Read the given source and answer the questions that follow: RAINWATER HARVESTING Many thought that given the disadvantages and rising resistance against the multi purpose projects,
