Priyanka Tiwari
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Water is one of the most essential natural resources required to sustain life on Earth. From ancient times, civilizations have flourished along rivers and water bodies, driven by the basic human need for clean water. In modern times, water is not just a survival resource—it is a growth enabler.
Water and Socioeconomic Development: A Strong Correlation
As human societies evolved, the role of water expanded from supporting health and hygiene to enabling agriculture, industry, and energy production. Today, adequate and reliable water supply is a key driver of both social well-being and economic progress.
In the Indian context, water is indispensable for:
- Food security and agricultural productivity
- Industrial expansion and urban infrastructure
- Public health and sanitation
- Hydropower and energy resilience
India’s Development Goals and the Water Imperative
The Government of India has set an ambitious goal to become a developed nation by 2047, marking 100 years of independence. According to the Economic Survey 2024–25, this vision demands an 8% annual GDP growth for the next two decades. To achieve a per capita income of $18,000—up from the current $2,400—India must invest in core resources, with water being a central pillar.
Growing Demand: Population, Economy, and Water Pressure
With rapid population growth and economic expansion, India’s water demand is rising sharply. The challenge lies in managing limited freshwater resources across competing needs—agriculture, households, and industries—while ensuring sustainability and equity.
