GOVERNMENT INITIATIVES FOR WATER MANAGEMENT

Abstract

Water is an essential resource for the development, maintenance and sustainability of agriculture and every living organism. Since the existence of this planet the importance of water has been known very crucial for fulfilling prime necessities of all living organisms. Thus land, water, air, fire and sky (PANCH MAHABHOOTAS) are very important for the development of mankind. Among them land and water are the most precious natural resources, they are vital for creation and sustenance of  life and its importance in human civilization needs no elaboration. At present, the soil and water resources of the planet are under intensive use and misuse. The needs of agricultural, industrial, domestic and others often result in diversion from one use to the other. Diversion of land use adversely affects the growth in agriculture; even the available land is degraded. Where, water is fugitive. It flows under gravity. The purpose of soil conservation is not only to preserve the soil but also to capture the rainfall, slow down the water flow and to enhance infiltration. These are not new insights. The Upanishad states: if water is running, make it walk; if water is walking, make it stand; if water is standing, make it sit; if water is sitting, make it sleep.