Summary

India is endowed with varied topographical features, such as high mountains, extensive plateaus, and wide plains traversed by mighty rivers. Water is an important input in the socio-economic development of a nation. In India, this dependence is even more apparent, as 70% of her population is dependent on agriculture.

Divided into four sections the book provides a comprehensive overview of water resources of India. Beginning with a general description of the country, major hydrologic features, such as climate (precipitation, temperature, radiation, etc.), streamflow, groundwater, soil, etc. are discussed. A detailed treatment of all major river basins is provided, which includes description of catchments, tributaries, surface water and ground water, and important water resources projects. This is followed by a discussion on major uses of water in India, major projects, water related problems including environment and water quality, provisions of the constitution of India, interlinking of India rivers, and institutions dealing with water resources. Finally, the last chapter discusses some views on water management policy for India.

AudienceThe book should be useful to Water Resources professionals, particularly those with an interest in India, graduate students, researchers, teachers, planners and policy makers.