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Journal of Water Resource Engineering and Management Original Research

Beyond Conventional Purification: India’s Journey in Water Technology and Governance

  1. Kailash Narayan
  2. Himank Sharma

Abstract

India is facing mounting challenges in water availability and quality due to rapid urbanization, industrial growth, climate change, and population pressure. Over the past decade, significant advances have been made in water treatment technologies, driven by increasing demand, stricter environmental regulations, and the need for sustainable solutions. This review critically examines recent technological innovations in water treatment, including membrane-based filtration, advanced oxidation processes, decentralized systems, and nature-based solutions, with a specific focus on their application and scalability in the Indian context. It also evaluates national water policies and government programs such as the Jal Jeevan Mission, National Water Policy (2012), and the Draft National Water Framework Bill (2016), analyzing their impact on the implementation of water treatment infrastructure and sustainable management practices. Despite advancements, persistent challenges such as institutional fragmentation, inadequate funding, and limited public participation hinder effective policy implementation. The paper identifies key gaps in policy coherence and technology adoption and offers strategic recommendations to align India’s water treatment framework with long-term environmental and public health goals. By integrating technical progress with policy innovation and inclusive governance, India can move toward more resilient and equitable water resource management.

Keywords

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