India’s economy, and the country’s agriculture sector, in particular, is highly water-intensive and substantial water resources are locked up in less productive growth. This is highly relevant in areas where water availability is constrained, while at the same time, implementation of development programmes such as Har Ghar Jal and Make in India would require good quality, reliable water supply. The study finds significant potential for water savings in agriculture and subsequent reallocation to other sectors. This inter-sectoral transfer of water must be accompanied by appropriate incentives for water users across sectors as well as institutional and regulatory restructuring.

During the session, we will delve into policies and interventions that could correctly and fairly incentivise farmers to adopt practices for better input management and water-use efficiency. We will also unpack how various institutional and regulatory reforms could positively work towards farmers' interest while at the same time evoke the need to maintain and develop water use efficiency.