The Ministry of Jal Shakthi has released the first-ever census of water bodies in India, highlighting the number of water bodies and their usage.

Key Findings in the Census

1. High Number of Water Bodies West Bengal, Uttar Pradesh, Andhra Pradesh, Odisha and Assam
2. Encroachment on Water Bodies
   • States with Maximum Encroachment: Uttar Pradesh accounted for almost 40% of water bodies under encroachment, followed by Tamil Nadu and Andhra Pradesh.
   • States/UTs with No Encroachment: West Bengal, Sikkim, Arunachal Pradesh, and Chandigarh.
3. Highest Number of Ponds, Tanks and Lakes:
   • West Bengal has the highest number of ponds and reservoirs.
   • Andhra Pradesh has highest number of tanks.
   • Tamil Nadu has the highest number of lakes
   • Maharashtra is the leading state with water conservation schemes.
4. Sikkim the least (134) number of water bodies

Significance of the Water Bodies Census

1. Assessment of Water Bodies.
2. Revealed disparities and encroachment.
3. Better Implementation of Schemes.
4. Framing of policies.
5. Gap between demand and supply of water.
6. Provide Information regarding water trading.

Conclusion

1. Census provides valuable data for planning rural development initiatives, conserving natural resources, and preventing encroachment.
2. The data highlights the need for sustainable water management practices and importance of preserving natural resources for future generation.

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