Research Papers

Rivers, as waterways

India is dealing with a growing water stress crisis brought on by things like climate change, population growth, pollution, and changes in land use. Currently, there are about 1400 cubic metres of water available per person, but by 2050, that number is predicted to fall to 1200 cubic metres. Already, a large portion of India is deemed to be water-stressed.

A recent report by the Intergovernmental Platform on Biodiversity and Ecosystem Services (IPBES), warns of the introduction of more than 37,000 invasive alien species due to human activities to marine, aquatic and terrestrial ecosystems globally.

The Ganges and Narmada rivers, in particular, have been severely degraded as a result of India's reliance on dams for irrigation and hydropower. Despite decades of significant environmental movements opposed to dams, they largely failed because they couldn't stop the work already in progress.

Domestic wastewater, in particular greywater, significantly contributes to the composition of all wastewater. It is becoming more widely accepted that greywater, as opposed to blackwater, is a valuable resource rather than just waste.

Mula Mutha, a river under seige

Irrigated agriculture consumes the largest share of freshwater resources, including both surface water and groundwater. As high as 40 percent of irrigation is dependent on groundwater, accounting for 70 percent of the total groundwater extractions world over and this share is predicted to increase with climate change. 

Biomonitoring, to assess the pollution levels in water bodies

In developing countries, it is extremely difficult to strike a balance between the competing priorities of socioeconomic and environmental goals within water utilities. India's water industry struggles with problems like budget deficits, accessibility restrictions, and poor service standards.

Micronutrient deficiency is known to affect the health of over two billion people globally and is known to impact learning, IQ, motor skills, and immune system functions and has a lasting effect on children through adulthood.