Dipankar Saha

Dr. Dipankar Saha is a distinguished hydrogeologist and water resource management expert with nearly four decades of experience at the forefront of India's groundwater sector. During his tenure with the Central Ground Water Board (CGWB) under the Ministry of Jal Shakti, he served in key leadership roles including Member (HQ) and Member Secretary of the Central Ground Water Authority (CGWA). Notably, as National Coordinator of the flagship National Aquifer Mapping Programme (NAQUIM), he spearheaded efforts to systematically map and manage the nation's complex aquifer systems. His contributions to the field earned him the prestigious National Geoscience Award for Groundwater Exploration from the Government of India. In addition to his administrative leadership, Dr. Saha is a prolific researcher who has published over 40 scientific papers, technical reports, and book chapters focusing on hydrogeology, hydrogeochemistry, and sustainable water resources. Following his superannuation from government service, he continues to work actively as an independent international consultant, researcher, and advisor. He regularly engages with academic institutions, civil society, and environmental media platforms like Down To Earth to advocate for sustainable groundwater policies and evidence-based water management. He is presently associated with Manav Rachna International Institute of Research and Studies, Faridabad.