‘Exchange of water resources between States to foster cooperation’

M.K. Sinha, Chairman of the GRMB recalled a successful example from 2018 when drought in Maharashtra was mitigated by exchange of power for water with Gujarat.

Hyderabad: Highlighting the critical need for a paradigm shift in how water resources are perceived and managed in India, M.K. Sinha, Chairman of the Godavari River Management Board pointed out that States often fight for water shares under the guise of protecting poor populations, while in reality, resources are sometimes siphoned off by wealthier elements. Delivering the keynote address during G. Koti Reddy Endowment Lecture at the Institution of Engineers, Telangana State Centre, he recalled a successful example from 2018 when drought in Maharashtra was mitigated by exchange of power for water with Gujarat. The latter had exchanged water with Madhya Pradesh for cash, and Rajasthan for future water rights.

This inter-state cooperation, facilitated by the Narmada Control Authority, showcased the potential of water deals that help foster greater levels of cooperation between the states in managing resources during times of scarcity. Calling for greater transparency and accountability in water management to ensure that the benefits reach those who need them most, he advocated for the economic packaging of water resources to reflect their true value and scarcity. While water should be adequately priced to promote conservation and efficient use, Sinha underscored the importance of compensating people, particularly farmers and low-income households, to prevent undue financial burden.

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Bottle Refund System

He proposed a system where water bottles are charged but refunded upon the return of the plastic bottle, encouraging recycling and reducing plastic waste. He suggested that irrigation water should be priced to reflect its value, but the minimum support price (MSP) for crops should be increased accordingly to support farmers. Charging for domestic and industrial water use can promote conservation. However, subsidies for individuals, especially those in lower-income brackets, are essential to ensure that basic water needs are met without causing financial strain, he stressed.