The groundwater quality in Northeastern states, including Assam, has been classified as excellent for irrigation, according to the Annual Groundwater Quality Report for 2024.
Union Minister of Jal Shakti, C.R. Patil, unveiled the report on December 31, following a comprehensive assessment by the Central Ground Water Board (CGWB).
The findings were based on internationally recognized methods and a standardized approach using a Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) for groundwater quality monitoring. This ensures consistency in data collection, analysis, and interpretation.
The report presents a thorough evaluation of India’s groundwater quality through background monitoring, trend analysis, and identification of critical hotspots. Using a robust dataset from over 15,200 monitoring locations and focused studies at 4,982 trend stations, it highlights spatial and temporal variations in groundwater quality.
This analysis serves as a vital scientific resource for policymakers, researchers, and stakeholders involved in groundwater management. The data-driven insights and evidence-based findings provide a solid foundation for informed decision-making. Key goals include improving groundwater sustainability, reducing contamination risks, and promoting adaptive water use practices.
The event also witnessed the presence of several dignitaries, including Debashree Mukherjee, Secretary of the Department of Water Resources, River Development & Ganga Rejuvenation, Subodh Yadav, Additional Secretary (A, IC & GW), and Dr. Sunil Kumar Ambast, Chairman of CGWB.
