Context:
A pan-India analysis has been conducted of fluoride in groundwater by National Remote Sensing Centre (NRSC).
Fluoride Contamination:
- Naturally occurs in groundwater
- National Limit – 1.50 mg/L.
- Health Risks – Excessive fluoride can cause skeletal fluorosis, dental decay, and other health issues, especially in children.
- Knock-knee syndrome, marked by outward bending of the legs from the knees, can also occur.
- Affected States – Rajasthan (highest), Telangana, western Andhra Pradesh, eastern Karnataka, etc.
- Seasonal Variation – Highest contamination during dry summer pre-monsoon months.
- Geographical Variation – Arid regions, especially in western India, show higher contamination levels compared to humid areas.
Status of Other Groundwater Contaminants in India:
- Arsenic – Predominantly found in West Bengal, Bihar, Jharkhand, Uttar Pradesh,
- Uranium – Detected in around 12 states, including Punjab.
- Iron – Common in Rajasthan, Jharkhand, Assam, etc.
- Other Contaminants – Antimony, cadmium, copper, barium, etc., all of which have adverse health impacts like toxicity, hypertension, liver, and kidney damage.
Steps Taken to Address Contamination:
- Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1974.
- Environment Protection Act, 1986.
- Water Cess Act, 1977.
- Prime Minister Krishi Sinchayee Yojana – Focuses on watershed development.
- Atal Bhujal Yojana – Aims at sustainable groundwater management.
Read more about: Ground Water Resource Assessment Report 2023, Groundwater Management, Central Ground Water Authority
Source: ScienceDirect
Previous Year Question
Which of the following are the reasons/factors for exposure to benzene pollution?
1. Automobile exhaust
2. Tobacco smoke
3. Wood burning
4. Using varnished wooden furniture
5. Using products made of polyurethane
Select the correct answer using the code given below:
[UPSC Civil Services Exam – 2020 Prelims]
(a) 1, 2 and 3 only
(b) 2 and 4 only
(c) 1, 3 and 4 only
(d) 1, 2, 3, 4 and 5
Answer: (d)
