India’s Union Minister of Jal Shakti, Shri C.R. Patil, introduced the Water Resource Census application and portal in New Delhi. This initiative aims to enhance the collection and management of water resource data across the country. The application supports various census schemes aimed at improving irrigation and water management.
Water Resource Census
The Water Resource Census encompasses several key initiatives. It includes the 7th Minor Irrigation Census, the 2nd Census of Water Bodies, the 1st Census of Springs, and the 1st Census of Major and Medium Irrigation Projects. These initiatives are part of a 100% Centrally Sponsored Scheme with the reference year set for the 2023-24 agricultural year.
Objectives of the Census
The primary goal of the Water Resource Census is to establish a comprehensive and reliable database for the irrigation sector. This database will facilitate effective planning and policymaking. It will also focus on improving water use efficiency and water budgeting.
Digital Application Features
The newly launched digital application offers a paperless solution for data collection. It includes a mobile application for data gathering and a web application for managing and validating the collected information. This digital approach enhances data accuracy and reduces the time needed for conducting the census.
Data Collection and Validation
The application employs ground truthing methods for data validation. This involves verifying data received from the SAC database during the 2nd Census of Water Bodies. The application allows for the recording of latitude, longitude, and images of all schemes, ensuring precise geographical data.
Pre-Population of Data
To streamline data collection, the application uses pre-populated data from previous censuses. This feature leverages LGD codes to facilitate efficient data entry during the collection process. It aims to reduce redundancy and improve the accuracy of the information gathered.
Use of Reverse GIS Technology
The application incorporates reverse GIS technology to ensure accurate geographical recording. This technology allows for the precise capture of latitude and longitude of schemes, particularly where village boundaries are accessible. This enhances the reliability of the census data.
Implementation and Future Prospects
The implementation of the Water Resource Census application marks step towards modernising water resource management in India. With the digital transformation of data collection, the government aims to create a robust framework for future water resource planning.
Questions for UPSC:
- What is the significance of the Water Resource Census in India’s irrigation policy? Explain.
- Estimate the impact of digital technology on data collection in government schemes.
- Critically analyse the role of water management in sustainable agriculture practices.
- Point out the challenges faced in the implementation of water resource management policies in India.
Answer Hints:
1. What is the significance of the Water Resource Census in India’s irrigation policy? Explain.
- Establishes a comprehensive database for planning and policymaking in irrigation.
- Supports multiple census initiatives, enhancing overall water resource management.
- Aims to improve water use efficiency and budgeting, crucial for sustainable agriculture.
- Facilitates data-driven decision-making, essential for addressing water scarcity issues.
- Aligns with government objectives for modernization and digitization in the irrigation sector.
2. Estimate the impact of digital technology on data collection in government schemes.
- Enhances data accuracy through real-time validation and ground truthing processes.
- Reduces time required for data collection, streamlining the census process.
- Promotes a paperless, end-to-end digital solution, minimizing administrative burdens.
- Facilitates the use of pre-populated data, increasing efficiency and reducing redundancy.
- Improves accessibility and transparency of data for policymakers and stakeholders.
3. Critically analyse the role of water management in sustainable agriculture practices.
- Effective water management enhances crop yields and resource efficiency in agriculture.
- Supports climate resilience by adapting irrigation practices to changing weather patterns.
- Facilitates sustainable land use and prevents over-extraction of water resources.
- Encourages the adoption of technologies that optimize water use, such as drip irrigation.
- Promotes equitable distribution of water resources among farmers, reducing conflicts.
4. Point out the challenges faced in the implementation of water resource management policies in India.
- Inadequate infrastructure and technology for effective data collection and management.
- Regional disparities in water availability and access complicate uniform policy application.
- Resistance from local communities and stakeholders to new water management practices.
- Insufficient funding and resources allocated for comprehensive water management initiatives.
- Lack of awareness and education among farmers regarding sustainable water practices.
