11 March 2026, Lucknow
Groundwater resources are becoming increasingly important for sustainable development in Uttar Pradesh. To manage these resources effectively, the state government designated the Groundwater Department as the nodal agency in 2004 for groundwater survey, research, planning, development and management. The department is also responsible for regulating groundwater extraction, promoting water conservation, coordinating recharge programs and monitoring initiatives implemented by different departments. Its key responsibilities include conducting scientific assessments of groundwater resources, studying related challenges and implementing strategies for sustainable use. With rising population, urbanization and agricultural expansion, the demand for groundwater has increased significantly, making scientific management and conservation essential for long term sustainability.
Assessment and Monitoring of Groundwater Resources
Groundwater resources have been assessed across all 75 districts covering 826 development blocks in the state. According to the latest assessment based on data as of 31 March 2025, 44 development blocks have been categorized as over exploited, 48 as critical, 171 as semi critical and 563 as safe. This classification helps identify areas where groundwater levels are declining rapidly and where conservation measures are required. To strengthen monitoring systems, the state is expanding its network of piezometers used to measure groundwater levels. During the financial year 2024-25, pre monsoon and post monsoon groundwater monitoring activities were completed in both rural and urban areas. Additionally, 184 non functional piezometers were replaced with new ones and maintenance work for 200 piezometers was completed. In the financial year 2025-26, a target of installing 233 new piezometers was achieved and maintenance work for another 200 units was completed. These monitoring systems help provide accurate data for policy planning and water resource management. To promote public awareness regarding water conservation, Groundwater Week is organized every year from 15 to 22 July across the state. In 2025, the program was successfully conducted in all 75 districts to raise awareness about the importance of groundwater conservation.
India Israel Bundelkhand Water Project
To address water scarcity in the Bundelkhand region, the Government of Uttar Pradesh and the Ministry of Water Resources of Israel signed a cooperation plan on 20 August 2020. Under this agreement, the India Israel Bundelkhand Water Project was launched to improve water resource management in the region. The project focuses on implementing advanced agricultural practices and integrated drip irrigation systems to enhance water efficiency. A total of 26 villages in Bundelkhand have been selected under the project where water management activities are being implemented based on hydrogeological conditions. In the first phase of the project, the selected Israeli company prepared a feasibility report which has already received approval. A mini pilot project has also been developed in Gangawali village under Badagaon block of Jhansi district. Through modern technologies and improved water management practices, the project aims to reduce water scarcity and strengthen sustainable water use in the region.
Atal Groundwater Scheme for Water Security
Several initiatives are also being implemented under the Atal Groundwater Scheme to strengthen groundwater conservation in the state. Under this program, water security plans are being developed in 88 over exploited and critical development blocks. Medium depth piezometers are being installed to monitor groundwater levels in these areas. The scheme has set a target of installing 88 medium depth piezometers and some installations have already been completed while the remaining work is in progress. In addition to monitoring infrastructure, the scheme also promotes rooftop rainwater harvesting systems to improve groundwater recharge. A target of installing rainwater harvesting systems across an area of 56000 square meters has been set and necessary actions are being taken to achieve this goal.
Experts believe that these initiatives of the Groundwater Department are strengthening water conservation awareness and improving scientific management of groundwater resources in Uttar Pradesh. Effective implementation of these programs will play a crucial role in addressing future water challenges and ensuring sustainable water availability in the state.
