India constitutes 16 % of the world’s population, but the country has only 4 % of the world’s freshwater resources. With the changing weather patterns and recurring droughts, India is water stressed. Freshwater sources fulfil 85% of India’s water demand, and it remains the world’s largest consumer of groundwater, consuming 124% more groundwater than China or the US.
Water demand is projected to exceed supply by 50% by 2030 and water shortage could result in a 6% loss in GDP by 2050 according to the World Bank.
Not unaware of the complex situation that India confronts with regards to water, the Indian government has displayed a strong commitment towards ensuring water security for its citizens. For instance, in five years to 2020-21 budget, the government allocated an annual average of $3.8 billion, or 1.1% of the budget for water and allied sectors.
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Hans Peter Nielsen Kyk
Title: Counsellor, Commercial Sector Advisor Water at The Royal Danish Embassy in New Delhi, India.
Area: Indien
Email: [email protected]
Phone: +91 11 4209 0773
