Dear Editor,
Water is depleting to alarming proportions due to scanty rainfall, groundwater pumping, urbanisation, pollution, destruction of vegetation and deforestation. Unless addressed, it will have adverse effects on the environment and people. Agricultural experts have made recommendations, such as micro-irrigation, diversification of farming, invention of high-yielding variety of crops, stopping free power to big farmers and checking wastage of water for industrial and domestic use. But, the government has been too apathetic to take steps, notwithstanding the Apex Court’s ruling to the effect. Since judicious harvesting, conservation and distribution of water are necessary to sustain growth, a comprehensive policy to boost the agricultural sector which is facing acute challenges is needed. With a strong rural economy, the government will save money it presently spends on freebies and other populist schemes. The amount saved could be spent on education, health and infrastructural development to create employment for the youth. Efforts should also be made to spread awareness about defending and preserving valuable natural resources, including water, for the coming generations.
DS Kang,
Via-e-mail
