On 19th September 2024, Shri C.R. Paatil, the Hon’ble Minister of Jal Shakti, digitally launched the newly developed “Bhu-Neer” portal during the concluding ceremony of India Water Week 2024. The portal is a key initiative to streamline and regulate groundwater management across India.
Development of the Portal
The “Bhu-Neer” portal was developed by the Central Ground Water Authority (CGWA) under the Ministry of Jal Shakti, in collaboration with the National Informatics Centre (NIC). It aims to enhance the regulation of groundwater resources, ensuring transparency, efficiency, and sustainability in their usage across the country.
Key Features of “Bhu-Neer”
- Centralized Database: The portal provides comprehensive details on the legal framework governing groundwater extraction at both state and national levels. It hosts a centralized database that users can access for critical information on groundwater compliance, policies, and sustainable practices.
- User-Friendly Interface: The portal is designed with features such as a PAN-based single ID system, NOC with QR codes, and a simplified process flow for project proponents. These improvements make the application process easier and more transparent, enhancing user experience compared to the previous version, NOCAP.
- Ease of Doing Business: In alignment with the Hon’ble Prime Minister’s vision of Ease of Doing Business, the “Bhu-Neer” portal enables a seamless and faceless process for groundwater regulation. This initiative is a step towards improving governance and promoting efficiency in the groundwater management system.
Functions and Services Offered
The portal is now live and accessible to the public. It offers various services for project proponents, including:
- Groundwater Withdrawal Permits: Requesting and managing permits for groundwater extraction.
- Tracking Application Status: Monitoring the status of applications for permits.
- Payment of Statutory Charges: Facilitating the payment of fees associated with groundwater usage.
- Queries and Clarifications: Addressing any questions related to groundwater withdrawal and its regulations.
Conclusion
The launch of “Bhu-Neer” is a significant milestone in the government’s effort to regulate and manage groundwater resources more effectively and sustainably. With its advanced features and centralized database, it promises to make groundwater regulation more transparent, efficient, and accessible.
Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs):
- Who launched the “Bhu-Neer” portal?
- A) Shri Narendra Modi
- B) Shri C.R. Paatil
- C) Shri Amit Shah
- D) Shri Nirmala Sitharaman
- Which organization developed the “Bhu-Neer” portal?
- A) Central Ground Water Authority (CGWA)
- B) National Informatics Centre (NIC)
- C) Ministry of Water Resources
- D) Both A and B
- What is one of the main features of the “Bhu-Neer” portal?
- A) PAN-based single ID system
- B) QR code for NOC
- C) Simplified application process
- D) All of the above
- What is the purpose of the “Bhu-Neer” portal?
- A) To regulate groundwater extraction
- B) To monitor groundwater quality
- C) To track water pollution levels
- D) To provide drinking water to rural areas
- What does the “Bhu-Neer” portal aim to promote?
- A) Sustainable farming practices
- B) Transparency and efficiency in groundwater usage
- C) Water conservation techniques
- D) All of the above