Hindu Editorial Analysis : 31-May-2024
Water is essential for life, playing a critical role in sustaining civilizations. In India, regulating water resources is not just about managing this vital resource; it’s about protecting the health and well-being of people and the environment. To achieve a sustainable and equitable water future, a collective effort from all levels of government, industries, and society is needed.
The Right to Clean Water
The Indian Constitution recognizes the right to clean drinking water as part of the right to life under Article 21. This emphasizes the significance of access to safe water, making it a fundamental right for every citizen.
Recent Steps Towards Regulation
In recent years, India has made several strides in establishing independent water regulatory authorities (WRAs) to improve the management of water resources. Key initiatives include:
- National Water Policy (NWP) 2012: This policy promotes the creation of autonomous WRAs to ensure fair pricing and cost recovery in water usage.
- 14th Finance Commission (2015): It recommended that states establish statutory WRAs to independently determine water pricing for various uses, including domestic and irrigation.
Maharashtra was the first state to introduce the Water Regulatory Authority Act in 2005, setting a precedent that was later followed by 11 other states.
Challenges in Water Regulation
Despite these efforts, there are significant challenges in the implementation of water regulation across India:
- Lack of Uniformity: Each state has created its WRA legislation independently, leading to inconsistencies in regulation.
- Selection Process: There is no transparent method for choosing WRA members, often leading to bureaucratic dominance in leadership roles.
- Transparency and Accountability: Minimal attention has been paid to ensuring the transparency of the regulatory process and the accountability of regulators.
- Core Functions Not Adopted: Many essential functions for independent regulation have not been implemented in several states.
- Lack of Model Legislation: Unlike the electricity sector, there is no model central legislation for water regulation, causing further fragmentation.
Why In News
Many countries have established independent water regulatory authorities (WRAs) and adopted decentralized systems of water governance, where the government acts as a facilitator to ensure effective management and equitable access to water resources. This approach allows for local engagement and responsiveness to specific regional needs, enhancing the overall efficiency of water governance.
MCQs about The Importance of Water Regulation in India
- What is the primary role of independent water regulatory authorities (WRAs) in India?
A. To increase water prices
B. To promote competition among water suppliers
C. To ensure fair pricing and cost recovery in water usage
D. To manage agricultural water supply
- Which article of the Indian Constitution recognizes the right to clean drinking water?
A. Article 19
B. Article 21
C. Article 32
D. Article 14
- What major challenge exists in the implementation of water regulation across Indian states?
A. Uniform pricing for all water uses
B. Consistent legislation across states
C. Lack of transparency in selecting WRA members
D. Excessive government funding
- Which state was the first to enact the Water Regulatory Authority Act in India?
A. Uttar Pradesh
B. Maharashtra
C. Kerala
D. Andhra Pradesh
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