Dynamic Ground Water Resource Assessment Report 2023

• The Union Ministry of Jal Shakti released the Dynamic Ground Water Resource Assessment Report for the entire country for the year 2023.
• The assessment was carried out jointly by Central Ground Water Board (CGWB) and States/UTs, which can be used for taking suitable interventions by various stake-holders.
  • Previous such assessments were carried out in 1980, 1995, 2004, 2009, 2011, 2013, 2017, 2020, and 2022, emphasizing the government’s commitment to regularly monitor and manage the nation’s water resources.

MAJOR FINDINGS

• As per the 2023 assessment report, the total annual ground water recharge for the entire country is 449.08 billion cubic meters (BCM), marking an increase of 11.48 BCM compared to the previous year (2022).
  • The increase may mainly be attributed to an increase in recharge from canal seepage, return flow of irrigation water, and water bodies/tanks & water conservation structures.
• Annual ground water extraction for the entire country is 241.34 BCM.
• Stage of ground water extraction stands at23%.
• Out of total 6553 assessment units, 4793 units categorized as ‘Safe’.
• Further, out of the total 6553 assessment units in the country, 736 units have been categorized as ‘Over-exploited’.
  • The report highlights a decrease in the number of ‘Over-exploited’ units, indicating positive strides in sustainable water management practices.