PM calls for cooperative resolution of water disputes, Pg12

Key Highlights:

• Prime Minister Narendra Modi urged states to resolve inter-state water disputes through cooperation and technology.
• The Ken-Betwa project was highlighted as a model for resolving water disputes.
• The 51st PRAGATI meeting, chaired by PM Modi, reviewed seven infrastructure projects across railways, power, and road sectors in nine states.
• PM Modi noted that project delays lead to cost increases and hinder citizens' access to essential facilities.

Detailed Insights:

• Inter-state water disputes in India often arise due to conflicting interests over river water sharing, leading to legal battles and delayed projects.
• The Ken-Betwa River Linking Project aims to transfer water from the Ken River to the Betwa River to irrigate the drought-prone Bundelkhand region.
• PRAGATI (Pro-Active Governance and Timely Implementation) is an ICT-based platform for monitoring and reviewing critical infrastructure projects.
• Integrated approaches to river-linking, water conservation, groundwater recharge, and efficient irrigation are crucial for ensuring long-term water security.

Key Concepts Involved:

• Inter-State Water Disputes: Conflicts between states over the allocation, use, and control of water resources.
• River Linking Project: A large-scale infrastructure project to transfer water from surplus rivers to deficit rivers through a network of canals and dams.
• Groundwater Recharge: The process of replenishing groundwater reservoirs through natural or artificial methods.