The Union Jal Shakti Minister C.R. Patil announced initiatives to address groundwater depletion in Haryana’s dark zone blocks. The central government is working in tandem with Haryana’s state government to implement effective water conservation strategies. This collaboration is part of a broader national effort, as approximately 150 districts in India face similar groundwater challenges.
About Dark Zones
Dark zones are areas with critically low groundwater levels. Haryana is classified as a dark zone, which raises concerns about water availability for agriculture and domestic use. The classification is based on groundwater depletion rates. Continuous extraction without adequate recharge leads to these classifications.
Government Initiatives
The Jal Shakti Ministry aims to reverse the dark zone status of Haryana’s blocks. This will involve promoting rainwater harvesting techniques and public awareness campaigns. The government emphasises that public participation is crucial for the success of these initiatives.
Financial Allocations for Development
In the Union Budget 2024, Haryana received approximately Rs. 76,000 crore for development projects. This is increase compared to the Rs. 19,000 crore allocated before 2014. The additional funds are expected to facilitate various infrastructure projects, including those aimed at water conservation.
Support for Farmers
Under the PM Kisan Samman Nidhi Yojana, 13.8 lakh farmers in Haryana benefit from direct financial support. Nationwide, over 9.58 crore farmers receive assistance. This scheme aims to enhance farmers’ financial stability and encourage sustainable agricultural practices.
Railway Infrastructure Development
The railway budget allocated Rs. 3,416 crore to enhance Haryana’s rail infrastructure. Fourteen new railway projects are underway, covering a total of 1,195 km. The Amrit Bharat Station Scheme will upgrade 34 railway stations with an investment of Rs. 1,149 crore.
Focus on Economic Growth
Minister Patil noted that under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership, India has progressed to become the fifth-largest economy. The goal is to reach third place globally. The budget reflects this vision, focusing on rural and agricultural development, with specific provisions for low-productivity districts.
Investment in Education and Health
The budget outlines plans to establish 50,000 Atal Tinkering Laboratories in government schools over five years. Additionally, all government secondary schools and primary health centres in rural areas will gain broadband connectivity. Plans for establishing day-care cancer centres in district hospitals are also in place.
Water Conservation Budget
The Jal Shakti Ministry has been allocated Rs. 67,000 crore for the Jal Jeevan Mission. This mission aims to provide safe and adequate drinking water through individual household tap connections.
Questions for UPSC:
- Discuss the importance of groundwater conservation in the context of sustainable agriculture.
- Critically examine the impact of the PM Kisan Samman Nidhi Yojana on rural livelihoods in India.
- Explain the role of infrastructure development in enhancing economic growth in Haryana.
- What is the Jal Jeevan Mission? How does it aim to improve water supply in rural areas?
Answer Hints:
1. Discuss the importance of groundwater conservation in the context of sustainable agriculture.
- Groundwater is essential for irrigation, especially in arid regions like Haryana, impacting crop yields.
- Conservation practices like rainwater harvesting can replenish groundwater, ensuring long-term agricultural sustainability.
- Depleting groundwater levels threaten food security and increase the cost of agricultural production.
- Public participation is crucial for effective groundwater management and awareness of conservation techniques.
- Government initiatives can provide financial support for farmers adopting sustainable practices, enhancing resilience.
2. Critically examine the impact of the PM Kisan Samman Nidhi Yojana on rural livelihoods in India.
- The scheme provides direct financial assistance to farmers, improving their cash flow and purchasing power.
- It has benefited 13.8 lakh farmers in Haryana, enhancing their financial stability and reducing poverty levels.
- However, there are concerns about dependency on subsidies and the need for sustainable agricultural practices.
- Critics argue that the scheme may not address structural issues in agriculture, such as land fragmentation.
- Overall, it has positively impacted rural livelihoods, but complementary policies are necessary for long-term benefits.
3. Explain the role of infrastructure development in enhancing economic growth in Haryana.
- Infrastructure investments, such as railways, facilitate trade and improve connectivity for businesses and farmers.
- The allocation of Rs. 3,416 crore for rail projects will enhance logistics and reduce transportation costs.
- Improved infrastructure attracts investments, creating jobs and stimulating local economies.
- Development projects funded by the central budget enhance public services, contributing to overall economic growth.
- Infrastructure development is crucial for supporting the agricultural sector, ensuring efficient supply chains.
4. What is the Jal Jeevan Mission? How does it aim to improve water supply in rural areas?
- The Jal Jeevan Mission aims to provide safe and adequate drinking water through individual household tap connections.
- It focuses on sustainable water supply systems and community participation in water management.
- The mission has been allocated Rs. 67,000 crore, emphasizing infrastructure development for water supply.
- It aims to improve public health by ensuring access to clean drinking water, reducing waterborne diseases.
- By enhancing water supply, the mission supports agricultural productivity and rural livelihoods.
