Context:
UN World Water Development Report 2024 released on world water day
Key Highlights:
- Agriculture accounts for 70% of freshwater withdrawals.
- Lake Chad has decreased in size by 90% over 60 years.
- 50% of the world’s population experiences severe water scarcity for at least part of the year.
- Northwest India and North China are among world’s top three hotspots of water-related risks to food production.
- Prevalence of Water–Prosperity Paradox – The report highlights the prevalence of Water–Prosperity Paradox which states that the developed water resource infrastructure can promote growth and prosperity, however, only richest countries can afford them.
World Water Day:
- Observed on – March 22
- Aim – To support the achievement of Sustainable Development Goal 6 (Water and sanitation for all by 2030).
- Theme for 2024 – ‘Water for Peace’
Related Articles:
Role of sustainable water management in food security
Source: United Nations
Previous Year Question
Consider the following statements:
Statement-I: According to the United Nations World Water Development Report, 2022, India extracts more than a quarter of the world’s groundwater withdrawal each year.
Statement-II: India needs to extract more than a quarter of the world’s groundwater each year to satisfy the drinking water and sanitation needs of almost 18% of world’s population living in its territory.
Which one of the following is correct in respect of the above statements?
[UPSC Civil Service Exam – 2023 Prelims]
(a) Both Statement-I and Statement-II are correct and Statement-II is the correct explanation for Statement-I.
(b) Both Statement-1 and Statement-II are correct and Statement- II is not the correct explanation for StatementI.
(c) Statement-I is correct but Statement-II is incorrect.
(d) Statement-I is incorrect but Statement-II is correct.
Answer: (c)
Explanation:
Statement 2 is incorrect. India uses about 89% of this groundwater for irrigation. Major share of total groundwater extracted by India is utilized for irrigation purposes and not for drinking and sanitation purposes.
