Water Governance Transitions Pathway: Adaptive Water Governance

Climate change is adversely impacting all three pillars of sustainability (Environment, Economic, and Social). Arguably, the most impacted natural resource and through which its negative impacts are strongly felt is ‘water’ (in the form of water insecurity). In developing countries, climate change, rapid urbanization, unplanned development, deforestation, increasing pollution and other factors resulted in increased uncertainties in managing water. Academic research showed that improving water governance is a key in dealing with uncertainties of water management and achieving water security. India’s national water policy also acknowledges that most of the challenges faced by the country’s water sector are governance related issues rather than technical and are not addressed adequately. In this background, this study emphasis on exploring the new forms of water governance: which are adaptive and equipped in dealing with the uncertainties and the challenges of Indian water sector. This chapter argues that adaptive water governance (AWG) is a desirable alternative in Indian context, as it presents foundation and strategies to transition towards achieving adaptation and resiliency. The study analysed the current inefficiencies of the water governance system in India to meet future demands and presented adaptive system as a transition pathway to achieve the sustainable water supply employing adaptive business practices and demand management by enhancing capabilities, integrating innovative solutions in Indian water sector.