An analysis paper published in the Journal of Earth Science System in 2008 posited that ground water availability was even lower than estimated by policy makers. Research conducted subsequently by Indian Institute of Science (IISc) and Indian Space Research Organization (ISRO) verified this position and further found that loss of water through evapotranspiration equaled or exceeded its replenishment through annual rainfall in the northern states and the Indo-Gangetic plains. A McKinsey report published in 2009 suggested that India will only be able to meet half of its water requirements by 2050.

Defining India’s Water Consumption Challenges

India’s water predicament is further influenced by its unique consumption patterns, leakage and loss patterns, wasteful consumption behaviors and regulatory policies that do not reflect the criticality of the challenge. India has traditionally focused on increasing water supply. However, Indian utilities lose roughly 40-60% of their water compared with 3.7% loss in Tokyo and 7% loss in Phnom Penh. Estimates from the Third World Center for Water Management indicate that less than 10% of wastewater generated in India is treated and recycled.

India’s water consumption patterns are uniquely different from developed markets. Agriculture accounts for highest water usage, largely because most farmers still use flow irrigation rather than advanced, water efficient practices such as drip irrigation. Lack of regulatory incentives for agricultural water conservation leads to greater inefficiencies and water wastage.