GS-3Editorials31 August 2026thehindu.com

Adopt policies for reuse of treated water

The article highlights the critical need for adopting comprehensive policies for the reuse of treated wastewater in India, citing Uttar Pradesh and Uttarakhand's contextualized policies as examples. It emphasizes that despite severe water scarcity, treated wastewater remains an underutilized resource. The National Framework on Safe Reuse of Treated Water (SRTW), 2022, is presented as a crucial guide for states to develop local reuse policies, moving beyond infrastructure development (like that under AMRUT) to actual practice. The piece argues for an integrated approach involving institutional coordination, economic incentives, quality standards, and public awareness (e.g., 'Apna Jal' initiative) to transform wastewater reuse from a waste management problem into an economic opportunity for climate resilience and sustainable growth.

The article highlights the critical need for adopting comprehensive policies for the reuse of treated wastewater in India, citing Uttar Pradesh and Uttarakhand's contextualized policies as examples. It emphasizes that despite severe water scarcity, treated wastewater remains an underutilized resource. The National Framework on Safe Reuse of Treated Water (SRTW), 2022, is presented as a crucial guide for states to develop local reuse policies, moving beyond infrastructure development (like that under AMRUT) to actual practice. The piece argues for an integrated approach involving institutional coordination, economic incentives, quality standards, and public awareness (e.g., 'Apna Jal' initiative) to transform wastewater reuse from a waste management problem into an economic opportunity for climate resilience and sustainable growth.

Exam linkage

GS-III: Environment & Ecology, Conservation, Environmental Pollution and Degradation, Environmental Impact Assessment; GS-II: Government Policies and Interventions for Development in various sectors.

Syllabus mapping

Environment & EcologyWaste Management & Water PollutionEnvironmental Law & PolicyWomen Population UrbanizationResources Industrial LocationSocial Sector Health EducationInternational InstitutionsIndian Economy Planning Growth

This topic appears in Mains

Questions on Environment & Ecology come up regularly in GS papers. Practice writing an answer — and see exactly what earns marks.

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