The National Green Tribunal (NGT) has nullified the Rajasthan government's 2025 groundwater regulation guidelines, ruling that they were inconsistent with the framework established by the Central Ground Water Authority (CGWA) under the Union Ministry of Jal Shakti. The Central Zone Bench observed that the state issued its 'Guidelines for Ground Water Regulation in the State of Rajasthan' in February 2025 without prior consultation with the CGWA and without aligning them with central norms concerning groundwater extraction and conservation.
Government Withdraws Notifications
During the hearing, the Rajasthan government informed the tribunal that the notifications issued on February 5 and February 10, 2025, had already been withdrawn. The matter came before the tribunal in an appeal challenging provisions in the Rajasthan guidelines that allegedly diluted restrictions on groundwater extraction. The CGWA argued that the state framework provided additional exemptions to government drinking water supply schemes, which were not in line with central regulations.
Groundwater Depletion Concerns
The tribunal noted that declining groundwater levels remain a major concern in Rajasthan and several other states, particularly in over-exploited, critical, and semi-critical areas. Referring to national data, the bench observed that India accounts for nearly 25% of global groundwater extraction, while states such as Rajasthan continue to face severe groundwater stress. The order reiterated that illegal extraction of groundwater is a criminal offence under the Environment Protection Act and said compensation should be recovered under the 'Polluter Pays' principle.
Stricter Monitoring and Enforcement
The tribunal also directed authorities to strengthen action against unauthorized borewells and illegal groundwater withdrawal. It stressed stricter monitoring of industries, mining, and infrastructure projects dependent on groundwater. The NGT observed that new water-intensive industries should not be allowed in over-exploited areas and warned that violations should invite closure, prosecution, and environmental compensation.
Sustainable Groundwater Management
The order also highlighted the need for rainwater harvesting, groundwater recharge systems, and monitoring through piezometers to ensure sustainable groundwater use. Allowing the appeal, the tribunal held that Rajasthan's groundwater notifications were inconsistent with guidelines issued by the Ministry of Jal Shakti and CGWA and therefore stood quashed and set aside.
