Why cannot India improve the efficiency of its consumption?
Water scarcity in India is not a new phenomenon during summer. However, as the climate warms and human population increases, it assumes a new level of seriousness. Several states are now facing water scarcity in north India, as shortages spread like an epidemic from Himachal Pradesh to Madhya Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Uttar Pradesh and Chhattisgarh.
Not all of it is due to natural causes, as disputes between states have exacerbated the situation. So has the cultivation of crops with complete disregard for water availability. While India’s water problem has been created by poor choices, numbers reveal that India has not been blessed with this indispensable natural resource. ET looks at some statistics that throw up important questions, while also hinting at potential solutions.
Why should agriculture use up so much water? Should a water-scarce country export water through farm products? Why cannot India improve the efficiency of its consumption?
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