Punjab CM Bhagwant Mann thanked farmers for accepting the ban and staying away from the water-guzzling paddy variety Pusa-44. But convincing them about the larger public good is a work-in-progress.
Increasing population, urbanisation and concretisation cited as reasons for depletion in cities. Delhi, Jaipur & Hyderabad among cities severely affected by water contamination.
According to latest Central Ground Water Board report, Punjab, Haryana and Rajasthan fall in 'over-exploited' range, while Delhi is in 'critical' range. Agriculture biggest consumer.
In draft guidelines to regulate groundwater, Modi govt has advised states to bring in suitable water pricing policy and review free or subsidised electricity to agriculture sector.
Panel set up by NGT in August to suggest measures to rein in illegal groundwater extraction is yet to come up with its report. Deadline ends this month.
Industry says manufacturers have 2-4 weeks of buffer stocks, but prolonged disruption could push up shortage risks, especially of consumables like IV and syringes.
French newspaper La Tribune earlier last week indicated that UAE withdrew from deal to fund EUR 3.5 billion. India is looking to order 114 new Rafales, which could include the F5.
China patiently invested capital, skill and technology in coal gasification. Unlike it, we won’t move from words to action. As crude prices decline, we lose interest.
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