Water scarcity is possibly to pose the greatest challenge on account of its increased demand coupled with shrinking supplies due to over-utilisation and pollution. Water is a cyclic resource with abundant supplies around the globe. Approximately, 71 per cent of the earth’s surface is covered with it but freshwater constitutes only about 3 per cent of the total water. In fact, a very small proportion of freshwater is effectively available for human use. The availability of freshwater varies over space and time. The tensions and disputes on sharing and control of this scarce resource are becoming contested issues among communities, regions, and states. The assessment, efficient use and conservation of water, therefore, become necessary to ensure development.

Which of the following statement is incorrect in reference to India and its resources?

India accounts for about 24 percent of the world’s water resources

India accounts for about 2.45 percent of the world’s surface area, 4 percent of the world’s water resources and about 16 percent of the world’s population. The total water available from precipitation in the country in a year is about 4,000 cubic km. The availability from surface water and replenishable groundwater is 1,869 cubic km. Out of this, only 60 percent can be put to beneficial use. Thus, the total utilizable water resource in the country is only 1,122 cubic km.