Monitoring and Regulation of Groundwater Extraction in India
The Central Ground Water Board (CGWB) is rigorously monitoring groundwater levels across India, collaborating with State Governments to ensure sustainable management of this vital resource. Recent data reveals that between 85% and 90% of the wells monitored after the monsoon over the past five years have shown water levels within 0-10 meters below ground level, indicating relatively easy access to groundwater in many regions.
Since 2022, the CGWB has been conducting annual assessments of the dynamic groundwater resources across the country. This initiative categorizes various Assessment Units into four classifications—‘Over-Exploited’, ‘Critical’, ‘Semi-Critical’, and ‘Safe’—based on their Stage of Ground Water Extraction (SoE). Detailed findings from these assessments for the past three years are available, showcasing regional variations in groundwater status, which can inform policy and resource management.
Control Over Groundwater Withdrawal
The Central Ground Water Authority (CGWA) has instituted regulations in 19 States and Union Territories to control groundwater extraction. This involves issuing No Objection Certificates (NOCs) for groundwater use in sectors such as industry, infrastructure, and mining, adhering to guidelines established in September 2020. Alarmingly, the CGWA has identified 2,833 instances of groundwater extraction occurring without a valid NOC or exceeding the approved limits. Among these, the industrial sector accounts for the vast majority of violations.
Enforcement and Penalties
To address unauthorized extraction, the CGWA enforces actions according to the Environment (Protection) Act of 1986 and established guidelines. The primary measure consists of imposing Environmental Compensation (EC) charges, which have accumulated to approximately 2,017.97 crore INR across 10,049 cases by February 2026. These punitive measures are crucial for encouraging compliance and protecting India’s groundwater supply.
Guidelines for Sustainable Use
To mitigate over-extraction, the guidelines introduced in 2020 include several safeguards. For instance, groundwater extraction is subject to a tiered charge structure, favoring sustainable practices. Additionally, industries tapping more than 100 kiloliters per day are required to undergo biennial water audits by certified Water Auditors to promote efficient water use. New industries in over-exploited areas are restricted, except for micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs).
Future Directions for Groundwater Management
The regulation of groundwater extraction is a process subject to continual improvement. Through stakeholder engagement and ongoing evaluations, the Ministry adapts its approaches, enhancing coordination and operational efficiency. Recently, the CGWA has encouraged the installation of telemetry systems in water flow meters for real-time monitoring of groundwater extraction. The introduction of the user-friendly Bhu-Neer portal aims to fully automate the NOC application process, streamlining the experience for applicants.
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