Question

Which of the following state does NOT have high levels of groundwater utilization?

• A. Odisha
• B. Haryana
• C. Punjab
• D. Tamil Nadu

Hint:

States associated with the Green Revolution (Punjab, Haryana) and those in arid or semi-arid regions with intensive farming (Rajasthan, Tamil Nadu) generally have the highest groundwater utilization. States in high-rainfall eastern India tend to have lower levels.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is A

Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
Groundwater utilization refers to the proportion of replenishable groundwater that is being extracted for use, primarily for irrigation. High levels of utilization mean that a large percentage of the available groundwater is being used, often leading to depletion.
Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
Let's analyze the states:


Punjab and Haryana: These states are the heart of the Green Revolution, with intensive agriculture characterized by water-guzzling crops like rice and wheat. They have very high levels of groundwater utilization, often exceeding 100% (meaning more water is extracted than recharged), leading to severe water table depletion.
Tamil Nadu: This state also has significant areas of intensive agriculture and relatively lower rainfall outside the monsoon season, leading to a high dependency on groundwater for irrigation.
Odisha: This state is located in a region with higher average rainfall and has a different agricultural landscape. While groundwater is used, the level of utilization is significantly lower compared to the northwestern and some southern states. It is not considered a state with high groundwater stress on a state-wide level.
Step 3: Final Answer:
Among the given options, Odisha does not have the high levels of groundwater utilization seen in Punjab, Haryana, and Tamil Nadu.