Once it is known that the system of administration and management of water resources has grown in a manner which is not conducive to productivity and efficiency, then what options are we left with? How do we analyze the state of the system, so that the critical points are identified and improved upon? Tushaar Shah and R.P.S Malik in their study of water governance in the Indus Gangetic basin observe that the water economy in this basin is largely informal. A framework for the study of governance in the IGB is proposed.

According to them, water governance is viewed as the sum total of processes, mechanisms, systems and structures that a State evolves and puts into place in order to shape and direct its water economy to conform to its near and long term goals. They identify the difference between the "formal' and the "informal" institutions as the basis of attainment of powers and the nature of authority wielded. The formal institutions derive power by the virtue of the state and formal rule of law, the informal ones acquire power through customary influences and beliefs.

 Credit: Tushaar Shah and R.P.S Malik

They add that the nature of water institutions existing in a given region/ nation at any given point in time depend critically upon the level of formalization of its water economy. By formalization, they mean the proportion of the economy that comes under the ambit of direct regulatory influence of the institutional environment.

The study tries to analyze the most chronic problem of governance of the water resources. The panel discussion on goernance issues notes that, to have an impact on goverance tough questions need to be asked. It is important that we ask why in spite of millions of rupees spent on irrigation (small and medium) leading to very little enhancement in productivity, why are these kind of projects still getting funded.

 Credit: Tushaar Shah and R.P.S Malik

Ground water is the lifeline of India. With every pasing day the reliance on ground water is increasing. It is increasing in a rapid manner in every sector of the economy. It will remain the mainstay of water sector. And therefore, we need to ask what kind of measures can sustain this use!

It is imperative that we ask the right questions now, in the light of these research findings. Download the presentation here