A severe public health crisis is unfolding in Madhya Pradesh, extending beyond the recent tragic deaths in Indore linked to sewage contamination. A new, larger threat has emerged from alarmingly high levels of nitrate found in groundwater sources across a vast swathe of the state.
Central Report Reveals Alarming Scale of Contamination
A study commissioned by the Union government and shared in August 2025 has uncovered a widespread problem. The report, based on the Annual Ground Water Quality Report of 2024, states that Madhya Pradesh ranks second among all Indian states, after Uttar Pradesh, for high nitrate concentration in its groundwater.
The data is stark: 39 out of 55 districts in the state have shown anomalous values of nitrate, exceeding the safe limit of 45 milligrams per liter (mg/L). This contamination was detected in one or more locations within these districts.
List of Affected Districts in Madhya Pradesh
The districts identified with high nitrate levels in groundwater include:
- Indore, Agar Malwa, Anuppur, Balaghat, Barwani, Bhind, Burhanpur
- Chhindwara, Damoh, Datia, Dewas, Dhar, Guna, Gwalior, Harda
- Jabalpur, Jhabua, Katni, Khandwa, Khargone, Mandla, Mandsaur, Morena
- Narsinghpur, Neemuch, Panna, Rajgarh, Ratlam, Rewa, Sagar, Satna
- Shahdol, Shajapur, Sheopur, Shivpuri, Sidhi, Tikamgarh, Ujjain, Umaria
Health Risks and Primary Causes
Elevated nitrate levels in drinking water pose a serious danger, particularly to infants. It reduces oxygen levels in the body, a condition known as methemoglobinemia or "blue baby syndrome," which can be fatal. The risk extends to other vulnerable populations as well.
The report pinpoints several key causes for this surge in nitrate concentrations:
Intensive agricultural activity is a major contributor, especially the cultivation of crops like rice and wheat that depend heavily on synthetic fertilizers. The nitrates from these fertilizers seep into the ground and contaminate aquifers.
Furthermore, poor sewage disposal practices and leaks from septic systems add to the nitrate load. The problem is worsened by reduced groundwater recharge due to urban development and climate change, leaving less water to dilute the contaminants.
Governance and the Path Forward
The report underscores that since water is a state subject, the primary responsibility for sustainable development and management of groundwater resources lies with the state governments. However, it notes that the central government supports states through technical and financial assistance via various schemes and projects.
The findings present a critical challenge for authorities in Madhya Pradesh. Addressing this contamination requires a multi-pronged approach, including regulating agricultural fertilizer use, modernizing sewage infrastructure, and promoting practices that enhance groundwater recharge. The health of millions of residents across these 39 districts depends on urgent and effective action.
