India’s Water Security Outlook: A State-level Analysis Through a Multidimensional Index

The present study assesses water security across Indian states, emphasizing the need for sustainable management due to escalating pressures from population growth, industrialization and climatic variability. The study introduces a comprehensive evaluation model that categorizes states based on water security, using various indicators that reflect availability, access, capacity, use and environmental sustainability. Our findings indicated significant disparities across states, with many facing acute challenges in managing their water resources effectively. Despite marginal improvements in certain areas, the overall scenario remains grim, with substantial parts of the population lacking access to clean water and sanitation. The study advocates for integrated water resource management strategies and targeted policy interventions to mitigate water stress and enhance sustainability, highlighting the urgent need for reforms in how water resources are managed and conserved in India. JEL Classification: O13, Q25, Q56, R11