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.

What percent of world's surface areas is accounted by India?

2.45 %

India accounts for about 2.45 per cent of the world’s surface area, 4 per cent of the world’s water resources and about 16 per cent of the world’s population.