Replied by VIF :There maybe a few general rules applicable to maintain our rivers better, which would include

1. Respect it first and foremost and not use exploit its resources at our free will and 2. Create awareness and sensitivity about its nature and strength and the resources it offers. Having said that, all rivers cannot be categorised under the same basin thus specific expertise and knowledge is required to nurture and govern it effectively. As you would know in India the central ministry responsible for managing rivers is the Ministry of Water Resources, River Development and Ganga Rejuvenation which lays down policy guidelines and programmes for the development and regulation of country's water resources and the National Water Policy envisages that the water resources of the country should be developed and managed in an integrated manner. There are 12 main river basins in India of which, the Ganga - Brahmaputra Meghna system is the biggest with catchment area of about 110 M.Ha which is more than 43 percent of the catchment area of all the major rivers in the country. The National Water Mission was also introduced with the main objective of “conservation of water, minimizing wastage and ensuring its more equitable distribution both across and within states through integrated water resources development and management”.

Replied by VIF : The issue of water resources is a complex subject needing a comprehensive approach, classifying only rivers in a separate category is unlikely to yield the best results for their management and governance. But yes, much more needs to be done to create and develop an efficient water eco system in India.

Posted on August 29, 2018

Topics: River