Jal Shakti Ministry
The creation of the Jal Shakti Ministry marks a significant move by the central government. It merges the Ministry of Water Resources, River Development, and Rejuvenation with the Ministry of Drinking Water and Sanitation, streamlining water management and regulation under a single department.
Under Narendra Modi’s leadership, the government initiated Mission Swachh Ganga in 2014, which separated it from the Ministry of Environment and Forests and integrated it into water resources. During the 2019 Lok Sabha election campaign, the Prime Minister pledged to establish a unified ministry for water-related issues, now overseen by Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat.
Understanding the Jal Shakti Ministry
The Ministry of Jal Shakti is a government department in India that manages and regulates water resources nationwide. It was established through the merger of the Ministry of Water Resources, River Development and Rejuvenation, and the Ministry of Drinking Water and Sanitation.
This consolidation aims to streamline water-related policies and initiatives under one umbrella, enhancing efficiency and coordination in water resource management. The ministry oversees various aspects of water governance, including irrigation, drinking water supply, river rejuvenation, and sanitation. It is crucial in addressing water scarcity, promoting sustainable water use, and ensuring access to safe and clean water for all citizens.
National Water Mission
The National Water Mission (NWM) is a key initiative launched by the Government of India to address the country’s watcountry’sd challenges and ensure sustainable water management. It is one of the eight missions under the National Action Plan on Climate Change (NAPCC). The mission aims to conserve water, minimize wastage, and ensure equitable distribution of water resources across various sectors.
It promotes efficient water use in agriculture, industry, and urban areas, enhances water supply and sanitation infrastructure, and raises awareness about water conservation practices. Through various programs and projects, the National Water Mission strives to achieve water security, mitigate the impact of climate change on water resources, and foster a culture of responsible water stewardship among citizens.
Water Scarcity Challenge in India
According to the 2018 Composite Water Management Index (CWMI), projections suggest a potential loss of 6% of India’s economy by 2050, with water demand projected to surpass available supply by 2030. Despite having 18% of the global population, India only has access to 4% of usable water sources. Inadequate resource management and insufficient government attention contribute to the country’s watcountry’sty.
A report by NITI Aayog in June 2019 highlighted India’s most Water crisis in history. Around 600 million people, roughly 45% of the population, experienced high to severe water stress. Projections indicate that by 2030, approximately 40% of the population will lack access to drinking water, and the water crisis could result in a loss of 6% of India’s GDP India’s
Additionally, as the Jal Shakti Ministry publication indicates, industrial activity is expected to require four times the water used in 2020 by 2030.
Frequently Asked Question
What is the Ministry of Jal Shakti?
The Ministry of Jal Shakti is a government department in India responsible for water resource management and regulation.
When was the Ministry of Jal Shakti established?
The Ministry of Jal Shakti was established in 2019 through the merger of the Ministry of Water Resources, River Development and Ganga Rejuvenation, and the Ministry of Drinking Water and Sanitation.
What is the objective of the Ministry of Jal Shakti?
The Ministry of Jal Shakti’s primary goal is to ensure the effective management, conservation, and equitable distribution of water resources to meet the diverse needs of India’s population. What are the critical responsibilities of the Ministry of Jal Shakti?
The Ministry of Jal Shakti is responsible for formulating and implementing policies related to water conservation, irrigation, drinking water supply, river rejuvenation, and sanitation.
Who heads the Ministry of Jal Shakti?
The Ministry of Jal Shakti is currently headed by a Cabinet Minister appointed by the Prime Minister of India. As of my last update, Gajendra Singh Shekhawat serves as the Union Minister for Jal Shakti.
How does the Ministry of Jal Shakti address water scarcity issues?
The Ministry of Jal Shakti addresses water scarcity issues through various initiatives such as watershed management programs, rainwater harvesting projects, and promoting water-saving technologies and practices.
How can the public engage with the Ministry of Jal Shakti?
The public can engage with the Ministry of Jal Shakti through its official website, attend public consultations and meetings, and participate in water conservation campaigns and initiatives launched by the ministry.
Conclusion
The Ministry of Jal Shakti is a vital institution in India that manages the nation’s watenation’sces. Established in 2019 through the amalgamation of two key ministries, its primary objective is to ensure effective conservation, regulation, and equitable water distribution across various sectors. Led by a Cabinet Minister, the ministry addresses pressing issues such as water scarcity through innovative initiatives and policies.
