India's Groundwater Status Revealed: Over 10% of Units Over-Exploited

The Ministry of Jal Shakti, through the Central Ground Water Board (CGWB) in collaboration with state governments, has released the 2025 Dynamic Ground Water Resources Assessment. The report indicates that India's annual groundwater recharge stands at 448.52 billion cubic meters (BCM) with an extractable resource of 407.75 BCM, and a yearly extraction rate of 247.22 BCM. Approximately 10.8% of the country's assessment units are categorized as 'over-exploited', with groundwater extraction surpassing natural recharge rates. In contrast, 73.14% of units are deemed 'safe'. Central and state initiatives like the Jal Shakti Abhiyan and Atal Bhujal Yojana are central to addressing groundwater sustainability challenges. The report stresses state responsibility for groundwater management, while also highlighting central support in monitoring and regulatory mechanisms.

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