This underscores the critical role of water governance for sustainable use of water.

Need of efficient water governance 

• Manage Scarcity: India supports ~18% of world's population but has only 4% of freshwater resources.
• Economic Growth: Inefficient water management could lead to a 6% loss in GDP by 2050. (NITI Aayog) 
• Climate resilience: Integrated Water Resource Management (IWRM) is needed to maintain the eco-hydrological cycle and sustain biodiversity.

Challenges in water governance 

• Fragmented Governance: In silos water management (e.g. Groundwater, surface water, irrigation, and domestic use) by institutions like CGWB, CWC, etc.
• Over-Exploitation: Severe depletion of groundwater aquifers due to subsidized power and lack of regulation.
•  Lack of Equitable Access: Lack of access to sustainable water sources hinders development of vulnerable sections. E.g. Women and sanitation needs
• Climate change: impacts the hydrological cycle.

Way Forward

• Integrated Water Resource Management: Treating river basins as units and linking land, water, and ecosystems.
• Promoting Behavioural change, Community participation, Circular Water Economy and Gender-Responsive Water Governance.

o E.g Jan Bhagidari- empower Gram Panchayats and village committees to manage local water systems.