Groundwater Levels Improve in 52% of India's Regions, Decline in Over-Exploitation Observed

Efforts in water conservation and sustainable agricultural practices are showing positive results, as groundwater levels have increased in 52% of India's regions. Additionally, there has been a 3% reduction in groundwater over-extraction over the past decade, according to a report by the Central Ground Water Authority (CGWA).

Key Findings from the Report:
•    A total of 13,734 wells were analyzed to assess groundwater trends.
•    Out of these, 7,100 wells recorded an improvement in water levels, indicating positive water recharge trends.
•    Groundwater over-extraction has reduced by 3% nationwide over the past ten years.
States with Significant Groundwater Level Increase:
(Percentage of analyzed wells showing improvement)
•    Kerala – 74%
•    Tamil Nadu – 72%
•    Gujarat – 61%
•    West Bengal – 59%
Delhi Records Highest Reduction in Groundwater Over-Extraction
•    According to the report, Delhi has witnessed the highest reduction in groundwater over-extraction, with a 28% decline from 2013 to 2023.
•    Other states like Uttar Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, and Odisha have also recorded over 50% of their wells showing groundwater level improvement during this period.
Scientific Groundwater Monitoring Across India
•    The Central Ground Water Authority (CGWA) has been monitoring groundwater levels across 13,000+ wells, collecting data before and after the monsoon seasons each year.
•    The findings highlight that sustainable water conservation practices are yielding significant benefits in many regions.