(a) whether the Government proposes to amend the existing National Water Policy to meet the present requirements of the nation, if so, the details thereof; and
(b) the steps being taken to maintain water resources and eliminate surface and groundwater resources pollution along with improving water quality?
THE MINISTER OF STATE FOR WATER RESOURCES, RIVER DEVELOPMENT AND GANGA REJUVENATION
(PROF. SANWAR LAL JAT)
(a) The National Water Policy, 2012 was adopted by the National Water Resources Council at its Meeting held on 28.12.2012. The Policy has made several recommendations for conservation, development and improved management of water resources in the country. There is presently no proposal to review the National Water Policy, 2012.
(b) Several measures for conservation, development and improved management of water resources are undertaken by the respective State Governments which inter-alia, include conservation of water resources in reservoirs, traditional water bodies, rain water harvesting and artificial recharge of ground water. Central Government provides technical and financial assistance to the State Governments in this regard through various schemes and programs.
The Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) along with the State Pollution Control Boards (SPCB) issues pollution norms for water bodies and also monitors the water quality through a network of stations all over India. Central Water Commission (CWC) also monitors water quality parameters of rivers at selected locations. Similarly, Central Ground Water Board (CGWB) monitors the availability as well as quality of ground water. The Water (Prevention & Control of Pollution) Act 1974 and Water (Prevention & Control of Pollution) Cess Act, 1977 forms the basis of water pollution regulations in the country. Necessary action against the polluters of water is taken by the concerned authorities under the different laws/rules framed by the Government in this regard.
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