Topic: Government policies and interventions for development in various sectors and issues arising out of their design and implementation
3. A national water policy for the twenty-first century has to recognise water as a national resource and enable the management of water in a decentralised way in partnership between local communities and the concerned state governments. Comment. (250 words)
Difficulty level: Moderate
Reference: Indian Express
Why the question:
The Ministry of Jal Shakti had set up a committee to draft the new National Water Policy (NWP). This was the first time that the government asked a committee of independent experts to draft the policy.
Key Demand of the question:
To understand the role of centre, state and local bodies in the National Water Policy.
Directive word:
Comment- here we must express our knowledge and understanding of the issue and form an overall opinion thereupon.
Structure of the answer:
Introduction:
Begin by giving some facts regarding the issues surrounding water management in India.
Body:
Mention by stating the need for a sound National Water Policy to minimise the negative impacts of the overuse and misuse of water and to ensure that our precious water resources are used optimally.
Next, highlight the role of water in removing poverty, promoting overall economic and social development of the country. Bring out the need for a robust co-ordination setup between the local governments and the states primarily to manage local water needs and issues and the centre to take the role of a facilitator.
Conclusion:
Conclude by highlighting the importance of decentralised approach to water management.
