(a) the total scarcity of water for irrigation purposes in the country;
(b) whether some scientists have suggested the possibility of the use of sea water for irrigation purpose in the country;
(c) if so, the details thereof; and
(d) the steps taken so far to make the sea water suitable for irrigation?
THE MINISTER OF PARLIAMENTARY AFFAIRS AND WATER RESOURCES (SHRI PAWAN KUMAR BANSAL)
(a) Total scarcity of water for irrigation purposes has not been assessed. Spatial and temporal variability in availability of water exists, resulting in scarcity of water for irrigation purposes in some areas. State Governments make allocations of water for various uses as per their priorities and needs.
(b) to (d) Several scientific reports have indicated about the possibility of use of sea water for various purposes including that for irrigation. However, due to relatively higher costs of treatment, there has been very limited use of sea water mainly for drinking purposes. The National Water Policy, 2002 states that ‘for effective and economical management of our water resources, the frontiers of knowledge need to be pushed forward in the several directions by intensifying research efforts in various areas’. The areas for intensive research listed in the National Water Policy, inter-alia, include “use of sea water resourcesâ€.