This paper examines how the neoliberal policies have influenced the water sector reform policies and interventions in India, particularly, in the states of Maharashtra and Gujarat.

Mandatory permits and a cess on groundwater use to irrigate cash crops, run industry or for mining are among the measures proposed by the Government in a draft Bill that aims at conserving groundwater. The Model Bill for the Protection, Conservation, Management and Regulation of Groundwater — which was discussed at a consultative meeting by the Planning Commission with experts and civil society members — proposes to strengthen the regulatory powers of gram sabhas, panchayats and municipal bodies, set up groundwater sanctuaries and impose stiff penalties for misuse.

A Bill to regulate and control the development and management of ground water and matters connected therewith or incidental thereto. Whereas, it is expedient to provide for Regulation and control of development and management of ground water in the State and for matters connected therewith or incident thereto.

An Act to regulate and control the development and management of ground water and matters connected therewith or incidental thereto. Whereas, it is expedient to provide for Regulation and control of development and management of ground water in the State and for matters connected therewith or incidental thereto.

A bill to regulate the development and management of ground water and matters connected therewith or incidental thereto. This Act may be called the Orissa Ground Water (Regulation, Development and Management) Act, 2011.

The Standing Committee on Water Resources (2010-2011) presented this tenth Report to the Parliament on 'Augmentation of Depleted Ground Water Level, Sustainable Development, Conservation, Management, Use of Ground Water and
Prevention of Water Pollution'. It includes review of the total ground water resources of India ,depletion and pollution of ground water resources , measures taken by Government for ground water augmentation and other related aspects.