The Annual Report for 2004-05 by the Central Water Commission (CWC) provides a comprehensive overview of the activities, achievements, and challenges faced in the water resources sector in India. As Raisin George, here is my detailed analysis of the key takeaways, highlighted data, implemented projects, budget allocation, budget utilization, pros and cons of the report, and a personal call to action.

Key Takeaways

1. Geographical and Water Resource Data:

   • India has a geographical area of 329 million hectares with significant variations in rainfall and major river basins.
   • The average annual rainfall recorded was 3693.59 billion cubic meters (BCM), with an estimated utilizable surface water potential of 690 BCM and total replenishable groundwater resources of 432 BCM.

2. Significant Projects and Achievements:

   • The CWC provided design consultancy for 100 water resources development projects and monitored numerous major, medium, and extension/renovation/modernization (ERM) projects.
   • Accurate and timely flood forecasts (4889) were issued during the monsoon period with a 96.05% accuracy rate.
   • The Pancheshwar Multipurpose Project, a joint initiative with Nepal, and the Sapta Kosi High Dam and Sun Kosi Storage-cum-Diversion Dam projects were significant undertakings.

3. Flood Management:

   • The Task Force on Flood Management and Erosion Control was formed in response to severe floods in Assam, Bihar, and Eastern Uttar Pradesh, leading to a detailed report submitted within four months.

Data Highlights

• Average Annual Natural Run-Off: 1869 BCM.
• Irrigation Potential: 140 million hectares (Mha) with 76 Mha from surface water and 64 Mha from groundwater.
• Flood Forecasting: 4889 forecasts issued with 96.05% accuracy.

Implemented Projects

• Design Consultancy: For 100 water resources development projects.
• Monitoring and Appraisal: Of 88 major, 38 medium, and 9 ERM projects.
• Flood Management: Issuance of accurate flood forecasts and the creation of a Task Force for flood management.

Budget Allocation and Utilization

• Total Budget: Rs. 49.41 crore allocated for various schemes.
• Utilized Budget: Rs. 41.36 crore for plan schemes and Rs. 111.28 crore for non-plan schemes.
• Notable budget allocations included Rs. 10 crore for the National Water Academy and Rs. 19 crore for strengthening the monitoring organization.

Pros and Cons of the Report

Pros:

1. Comprehensive Coverage: The report provides detailed insights into various water resource management activities and achievements.
2. Accurate Data: High accuracy in flood forecasting and extensive data collection on hydrological observations.
3. International Collaboration: Effective collaboration with neighboring countries on projects like the Pancheshwar Multipurpose Project.

Cons:

1. Delayed Projects: Several projects, including those under the investigation of 57 Minor Irrigation Schemes in Mizoram, faced delays.
2. Budget Utilization: While significant funds were allocated, there were discrepancies in the actual expenditure versus the budgeted amounts, indicating potential areas for financial efficiency improvement.