Phase IFoundation
Background
Overview
Water security is fundamental to India's economic development, food security, public health, and environmental sustainability. UPSC frequently asks about challenges and solutions related to water resources, inter-state water disputes, and government initiatives and policies.
India, home to 18% of the world's population but only 4% of its freshwater resources, faces chronic water stress due to uneven distribution, over-extraction, pollution, and climate change impacts. Sustainable water management involves adopting holistic strategies to ensure equitable access, efficient use, and conservation of water resources for present and future generations.