Water Resource Scenario in Punjab: Challenges and Technological Interventions for Sustainable use in Agriculture

Punjab, a state in northwestern India, is a major agricultural hub, recognized for its significant contribution to the nation’s foodgrain production, despite its relatively small size. The post-green revolution era ushered in a reliance on intensive crops, primarily through the rice-wheat cropping system, supported by a consistent water supply. However, this monoculture has strained water resources. Recent data reveals a water deficit of 13.06 billion cubic meters (BCM), derived by subtracting the available 53.06 BCM from the demand of 66.12 BCM. Canal water supply has stagnated, resulting in the overuse of groundwater to cover the annual 13.06 BCM water deficit. Consequently, 77% of the state grapples with overexploited groundwater, reaching an overall extraction stage of 164%. To safeguard groundwater resources and maintain stability, this deficit must be reduced to zero by simultaneously curbing demand and enhancing supply. This review article explores water resources’ demand and availability in Punjab, while presenting sustainable water-use technologies and strategies. It emphasizes the need for changes in water usage behaviour, a balanced regulatory system with sanctions and incentives, and agronomic interventions to diminish the current water deficit without compromising future groundwater resources.