Question

Analyse any three key features of 'Indian National Water Policy'.

Answer 1

The Indian National Water Policy is a policy statement that establishes a framework and rules for water resource planning, development, and management in the country. The essential features of India's National Water Policy are:

1. Recognise water as a limited and valuable natural resource, a basic human necessity, and a national asset, and plan, develop, and manage it accordingly.
2. Use an integrated and participatory approach to water resource development and management based on river basin or sub-basin units, involving all stakeholders and taking into account social, economic, and environmental factors.
3. Encourage water conservation, efficiency, and equity in water use, and ensure that water charges represent the full cost of service provision, including operation, maintenance, and capital expenditures.