Why in the News?

The ‘Bhu-Neer’ Portal was digitally launched by Minister of Jal Shakti, during the India Water Week 2024.

What is ‘Bhu-Neer’ Portal?

‘Bhu-Neer’ is a centralized platform for managing groundwater withdrawal permits.
It is developed by the Central Ground Water Authority (CGWA) in collaboration with the National Informatics Centre (NIC).
It aims to regulate groundwater resources across India efficiently and sustainably, ensuring transparency and sustainability in groundwater usage.

It has the mandate of regulating ground water development and management in the country.
It is constituted under the Environment (Protection) Act of 1986.
CGWA issues advisories, public notices and grant No Objection Certificates (NOC) for ground water withdrawal.

Centralized Database: Provides comprehensive information about legal frameworks for groundwater extraction and state/national regulations.
User-Friendly Interface: Simplified features such as PAN-based single ID system, NOC with QR code, and streamlined process flow for project proponents.
Improved Version: More advanced than its predecessor, NOCAP, offering better functionality and ease of use.
Groundwater Compliance: Centralized access to information on groundwater regulations, compliance measures, and sustainable practices.

Launch and Accessibility: The portal is live and publicly accessible for groundwater withdrawal queries, status tracking, and payment of statutory charges.
Public Access: All project proponents and the general public can use the portal for their groundwater-related needs.

[2020] Consider the following statements:

1. 36% of India’s districts are classified as “overexploited” or “critical” by the Central Ground Water Authority (CGWA).

2. CGWA was formed under the Environment (Protection) Act.

3. India has the largest area under groundwater irrigation in the world.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

(a) 1 only

(b) 2 and 3 only

(d) 1 and 3 only