A single drop of water journeys across the land filtering through rocks and sand to become the invaluable resource we rely on—clean groundwater. This essential source supports life, fuels agricultural productivity and secures water for millions. In 2024, total annual groundwater recharge experienced a significant increase of 15 BCM (Billion Cubic Meters), while extraction decreased by 3 BCM compared to the 2017 assessment. This progress underscores the importance of understanding groundwater’s availability, usage, and the challenges ahead.
The Central Ground Water Board (CGWB), in collaboration with State Groundwater Departments, releases annual reports on groundwater resources. The ‘National Compilation on Dynamic Ground Water Resources of India, 2024’ offers a comprehensive state-wise overview, serving as a foundation for effective policies and management strategies. According to the latest report, the total annual groundwater recharge is assessed at 446.90 Billion Cubic Meters (BCM), with an extractable resource of 406.19 BCM and an annual extraction of 245.64 BCM. The report highlights increased recharge, mainly due to water bodies, tanks, and conservation structures and shows improvements in groundwater.
The year 2024 has seen positive advancements in several key areas, with notable highlights including:
Total Annual GW Recharge has increased (15 BCM) substantially and Extraction has declined (3 BCM) in 2024 from 2017 assessment.
Recharge from Tanks, Ponds and WCS (Water Control System) has shown a consistent increase in the last five assessments. In the year 2024, it has increased by 0.39 BCM w.r.t. 2023.
With respect to the year 2017, there is an increase of 11.36 BCM in recharge from Tanks, Ponds & WCS (from 13.98 BCM in 2017 to 25.34 BCM in 2024).
The percentage of Assessment Units under Safe Category have increased from 62.6% in 2017 to 73.4 % in 2024. The percentage of Over Exploited Assessment units have declined from 17.24 % in 2017 to 11.13 % in 2024.
Maintaining groundwater quality is just as crucial as its recharge for sustainable water management. Key pollutants such as Arsenic, Fluoride, Chloride, Uranium, and Nitrate pose serious health risks, either through direct toxicity or long-term exposure. Additionally, Elevated Electrical Conductivity (EC) can indicate contamination from agricultural runoff, industrial discharge, or saline intrusion, while Iron contamination may lead to gastrointestinal issues, highlighting the importance of careful water quality monitoring.
To assess the critical areas impacted by contamination, the Annual Groundwater Quality Report for 2024 offers a comprehensive analysis of groundwater quality across India, drawing insights from data collected at over 15,200 monitoring locations and 4,982 trend stations. The report emphasizes the importance of not only preserving groundwater but also ensuring its quality for effective, long-term water management.
The report further reveals that 81% of groundwater samples are suitable for irrigation, with 100% of groundwater samples from the North-Eastern states being rated “excellent” for irrigation, underscoring the favorable conditions for agriculture in the region.
These positive outcomes are the result of collaborative efforts between state and central governments. The Government of India has launched various initiatives to preserve water and ensure its availability for future generations.
These schemes and initiatives reflect the Government of India’s commitment to sustainable water management and conservation. Together, they play a crucial role in securing water resources for future generations and ensuring a water-rich India.
India’s collaborative efforts and key initiatives have led to significant improvements in groundwater recharge, quality, and management. With a focus on sustainability and innovation, these measures ensure a secure water future for generations to come. Continued dedication will help maintain clean, accessible water for all.
