New Delhi, September 11
Calling for a paradigm shift in demand management of water, Prime Minister Manmohan Singh today said that the country cannot continue to subsidise the economic and commercial use of water.
In his inaugural address at the National Congress on Groundwater, he emphasised the need for efficient, economical and more rational use of water.
"A paradigm shift is also necessary in dealing with demand management. Every living being has the right to potable water, since water is life. However, for the economic use of water, especially in irrigation, construction and other sectors, we must emphasise the importance of efficient, economical and more rational use of water," he said.
The PM said the country cannot continue to subsidise the economic and commercial use of water. "There are related policies that must also be corrected to ensure adequate emphasis on water conservation, especially groundwater. For example, providing free power to farmers has encouraged excessive use of pump sets and excessive drawing of groundwater."
He said if there is economic pricing of power, there would be some incentive for conserving groundwater. "Water conservation and management can be better served through appropriate incentives and penalties," he said.
“The impressive example of Chennai city that had a city-based, neighbourhood-based strategy is before us. Every village, every locality, every neighbourhood, every town should have a rain water harvesting scheme. Panchayats must be actively engaged in groundwater recharge and the renovation and maintenance of water bodies,” he said.
He said Dublin Conference on water and environment held in 1992 drew attention to the central role of women in water management. There was also recognition that water is both a public good and an economic good. “Modern governments must base their policies pertaining to water on both criteria. The question before us is have we paid adequate attention to these principles and priorities since 1992. I am afraid we have not done so, " he added.
President Pratibha Devisingh Patil gave the valedictory address at the meeting.
She said children should be made "water-literate” so that they understand it is a valuable commodity.
The President gave away “National Water Award” and Bhoomijal Samvardhan Puraskars on the occasion.
