What is Constitutional Provisions for Water Management?
Historical Background
Key Points
7 points- 1.
Entry 17 of the State List (List II of the Seventh Schedule) gives states the power over water, that is to say, water supplies, irrigation and canals, drainage and embankments, water storage and water power subject to the provisions of Entry 56 of List I.
- 2.
Entry 56 of the Union List (List I of the Seventh Schedule) empowers the Union to make laws for the regulation and development of inter-state rivers and river valleys to the extent to which such regulation and development under the control of the Union is declared by Parliament by law to be expedient in the public interest.
- 3.
Article 262 provides for the adjudication of disputes relating to waters of inter-state rivers or river valleys.
- 4.
Visual Insights
Constitutional Provisions for Water Management
Comparison of key constitutional provisions related to water management in India.
| Provision | Description | Exam Relevance |
|---|---|---|
| Entry 17, State List | States have power over water supplies, irrigation, canals, etc., subject to Entry 56 of Union List. | Prelims: Important for understanding state powers over water. |
| Entry 56, Union List | Union can make laws for regulation and development of inter-state rivers and river valleys. | Prelims: Important for understanding Union powers over inter-state rivers. |
| Article 262 | Provides for adjudication of disputes relating to waters of inter-state rivers or river valleys. | Prelims & Mains: Key provision for resolving water disputes. |
| Article 246 | Deals with the subject matter of laws made by Parliament and State Legislatures. | Prelims: Provides the framework for legislative powers. |
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Frequently Asked Questions
121. What are the key constitutional provisions for water management in India?
The Indian Constitution addresses water management primarily through the allocation of responsibilities between the Union and the States. Key provisions include Entry 17 of the State List, Entry 56 of the Union List, Article 262, and Article 246.
Exam Tip
Remember the list numbers (17 and 56) to differentiate between State and Union powers regarding water.
2. How does Entry 17 of the State List relate to water management?
Entry 17 of the State List (List II of the Seventh Schedule) gives states the power over water supplies, irrigation, canals, drainage, embankments, water storage, and water power, subject to the provisions of Entry 56 of List I.
Exam Tip
Focus on the specific areas of water management that fall under the State's purview, such as irrigation and water storage.
