SM

Srishti MishraAIR 95· 2023

Question 6GS1GS1

Examine the factors contributing to India's groundwater crisis, and their implications for agriculture and water security in the country.

Open scan (p.16)
AnswerStrengthsGapsKeywords

Introduction

Recently, South Africa faced a zero-day attack - a case of severe water shortage. Reports claim that India is on a similar path as the mere feature.

27 words

Main Body

Factors Contributing to India's Groundwater Crisis: Agricultural misuse and overexploitation: 90% of groundwater goes to irrigation for Indian agriculture. Reverse subsidies on electricity allow farmers to overexploit groundwater. Inadequate storage/replenishment: eg: Holding johnets structures have become obsolete while rain-harvesting is low. Reduced percolation due to expanded urbanization and concrete roads: Leading to run-off of rainwater. Pollution and contamination: Disrupting groundwater recharge.

Implications of Crisis for Agriculture: Negative implications: Increased steps on water guzzling crops eg: sugarcane, paddy. May reduce output of agriculture - affecting food security (economic impact). May lead to increased dependence on monsoonsfarmer suicides (income reduced). Positive implications: Increased demand for millet cropping, sustainable agriculture. Implications for Water Security: Overuse of groundwater will create water shortage. Increased inequality and burden as well as health crisis. Groundwater rejuvenation through schemes like Bhagal Vigna and sustainable agriculture can save the country from a water crisis.
147 words1 paragraphs
  • Real-world reference to South Africa
  • Comprehensive list of contributing factors
  • Specific data (90% for agriculture)
  • Discusses both negative and positive implications
  • Mentions specific schemes
  • Links to health and inequality issues

Open original scan

Page 16

Topper

Srishti Mishra

AIR 952023

Subject & Paper

GS1GS1

Topic

Distribution of Key Natural Resources across the world

Water Resources and Groundwater Crisis

India's Groundwater Crisis - Factors and Implications

Writing Stats

174

Total words

1

Paragraphs

analytical and solutions-oriented

Tone