According to International Water Resource Group (IWRG) estimates, India's aggregate water demand is expected to double from the current level of about 700 billion cubic metres to 1498 billion cubic metres by 2030. With an estimated supply of about 744 billion cubic metres by then, the water gap is estimated to be 50 per cent. This shortfall can be plugged by adopting basic conservation measures, especially in agriculture. The agriculture sector is relatively inefficient in water usage despite the availability of conservation technology. According to Central Water Commission, India wastes 40 per cent of the water it uses. It is estimated that it would cost $6 billion (Rs 27,900 crore) to implement enough water conservation strategies to meet the projected demand

Challenges associated with developing and managing water resources are becoming more acute and sustained supply of water is becoming a critical issue for the survival of industries especially water intensive industries. Not only India faces major challenges in developing and maintaining an appropriate stock of water infrastructure, it also faces challenges in developing the laws, regulations and institutions required for managing water resources. There is a realisation among water leaders that the only way in which we can guarantee our water future is by thinking radically. The challenge of managing our water resources in a rational and sustainable manner will require action on many fronts and coordination across different sectors of the economy.  It is imperative that the country adopt an integrated water resources management approach to ensure sustained availability of water.