India’s unsustainable groundwater extraction could lead to severe water shortages within 20 years

Abhinav Kumar Jha

India, with only 4 per cent of global groundwater, has depleted 25 per cent of its resources in 70 years, mainly due to agriculture. “You can see that if you continue to extract water at the rate you are doing, I think you will have serious trouble over the next two decades, not too far away, just twenty years ahead,” said Angelo George, CEO of Bisleri International, as he addressed the critical issue of water scarcity in India.

George underscored the urgent need for sustainable water management practices in India, where the country faces a significant water crisis. He highlighted that India, home to the largest population globally, possesses only about 4 per cent of the world’s groundwater.

As the world’s largest extractor of groundwater, India has depleted nearly one-fourth of its groundwater resources over the last 70 years. George pointed out that agricultural activities account for the majority of groundwater extraction in India, with about 85 per cent used for irrigation.

He noted that the natural replenishment from monsoons is insufficient to meet this demand. In Punjab, for instance, water-intensive crops like paddy are leading to a staggering depletion of groundwater resources by over 85 per cent. “It’s like we are borrowing from the future,” he stated, emphasising the unsustainable practices currently in place.

The Role Of Water Credits

To address these pressing challenges, George proposed the implementation of water credits as a viable solution. He explained that water credits could create a market-based system where users can earn and trade credits for conserving water. This approach would encourage individuals and organisations to adopt more sustainable practices and contribute to water conservation efforts.

George emphasised that such a system would require uniform regulations across states to manage water resources effectively. Currently, there are 19 states with a Central Ground Water Authority, while others operate independently, leading to inconsistencies in water management practices.

Innovative Initiatives By Bisleri

As the CEO of Bisleri International, George shared how his company has taken proactive steps toward sustainability. Bisleri has achieved the status of being plastic-neutral and water-positive by recycling more plastic than it produces and replenishing more water than it extracts from the ground.

In collaboration with educational institutions, Bisleri has developed educational materials aimed at promoting responsible plastic use and environmental awareness among young minds. These initiatives are part of a broader effort to educate communities about sustainable practices.

Additionally, George discussed Bisleri’s work in restoring check dams in rural Maharashtra and Gujarat, which has significantly improved water availability for local farmers and enhanced their livelihoods.

As India grapples with an impending water crisis, Angelo George’s insights serve as a crucial reminder of the need for innovative solutions like water credits to ensure sustainable water use and secure future resources for generations to come. The call for uniform regulations and community engagement is essential in tackling this critical issue effectively.