A recent report reveals that India’s groundwater depletion rate is set to triple between 2041 and 2080 due to the impacts of global warming. Despite potential increases in precipitation, rising temperatures will lead to higher demand for underground water resources, posing a significant threat to the nation’s water and food security.
The study found that as temperatures rise, farmers intensify groundwater extraction to meet growing crop water needs, exacerbating the depletion problem. To address this issue, the report recommends implementing policies such as rationing power supply, metering electricity usage, promoting regional water resource development, and rewarding farmers for groundwater recharge efforts. Efficient irrigation technologies and cultivating less water-intensive crops are also suggested solutions.
Why might groundwater depletion continue to worsen despite potential increases in precipitation?
Groundwater depletion is expected to worsen as rising temperatures lead to higher irrigation demands, which could outweigh any gains from increased precipitation.
What percentage of India’s irrigated agriculture relies on groundwater?
More than 60% of India’s irrigated agriculture depends on groundwater, highlighting its critical role in food production.
How have farmers adapted to warming temperatures in India, and what are the consequences?
Farmers have intensified groundwater withdrawals in response to warming temperatures to meet crop water demand, accelerating groundwater depletion and potentially compromising long-term irrigation sustainability.
Why is it essential to target water-saving policies in south and central India in addition to northwest India?
South and central India have harder-to-recharge aquifers and less storage capacity than northwest India, making it crucial to extend water-saving policies to these regions to prevent the loss of irrigation capabilities as aquifers become overexploited.
