The third chapter in Geography textbook is ‘Water Resources’.
The chapter begins with the availability of fresh water on earth and how the situation of scarcity of water generates. The chapter discusses the pros and cons of constructing dams on rivers.
In the end, the chapter talks about Rain Water Harvesting as a means to conserve water.
Three-fourth of the earth’s surface is covered with water but only a small proportion of it accounts for freshwater, that can be put to use. Water is a renewable resource.
In ancient times, we used to conserve water by constructing sophisticated hydraulic structures like dams built of stone rubble, reservoirs or lakes, embankments and canals for irrigation. We have continued this tradition in modern India by building dams in most of our river basins.
Dams are built to impound rivers and rainwater that can be used later to irrigate agricultural fields. They help in electricity generation along with flood control, recreation, inland navigation and fish breeding.
Rainwater harvesting is a simple method by which rainfall is collected for future usage. The collected rainwater may be stored, utilized in different ways or directly used for recharge purposes.
The chapter begins with the availability of fresh water on earth and how the situation of scarcity of water generates. The chapter discusses the pros and cons of constructing dams on rivers.
Three-fourth of the earth’s surface is covered with water but only a small proportion of it accounts for freshwater, that can be put to use. Water is a renewable resource.
In ancient times, we used to conserve water by constructing sophisticated hydraulic structures like dams built of stone rubble, reservoirs or lakes, embankments and canals for irrigation. We have continued this tradition in modern India by building dams in most of our river basins.
Dams are built to impound rivers and rainwater that can be used later to irrigate agricultural fields. They help in electricity generation along with flood control, recreation, inland navigation and fish breeding.
Rainwater harvesting is a simple method by which rainfall is collected for future usage. The collected rainwater may be stored, utilized in different ways or directly used for recharge purposes.
The topics discussed in this chapter are as follows:
- Multi-purpose river projects and Integrated Water Resources Management
- Rainwater Harvesting
Students can view and download the chapter from the link given below.
Click here to get the complete chapter
Download NCERT Solutions for Chapter 3: Water Resources
Also Check
Chapter 1: Resources and Development
Chapter 2: Forest and Wildlife Resources
Chapter 4: Agriculture
Chapter 5: Minerals and Energy Resources
Chapter 6: Manufacturing Industries
Chapter 7: Lifelines of National Economy
Check out Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) for Chapter 3: Water Resources
What is the importance of water resources?
They bring water to those areas which suffer from water scarcity and also provide water for irrigation. These projects generate electricity for industries and our homes. They help in controlling floods by regulating the water flow. These projects can be used for recreation, inland navigation and fish breeding.
What is the largest consumer of water?
Irrigated agriculture is the largest consumer of water. That is why; it is needed to revolutionize the agriculture through developing drought resistant crops and dry farming techniques so that requirement of water will be decreased.
What percentage of global precipitation does India receive?
India receives nearly 4% of global precipitation.
Give an estimate of India’s renewable water resources.
The total renewable water resources of India are estimated at 1897 sq km per annum.
What is water scarcity?
Water scarcity means shortage of water. It is usually associated with regions having low rainfall or drought prone areas.
