Dr. Ambedkar’s contribution to water resource management
Q. Which of the following is/are true?
1) Central Water Commission (CWC) is not a modern organisation of government and traces its roots to the British times.
2) Dr. Ambedkar introduced the concept of multi-purpose development of river basin in the country- Published on 20 Apr 16a. Only 1
b. Only 2
c. Both 1 and 2
d. Neither 1 nor 2
ANSWER: Both 1 and 2
- Dr. Bhimrao Ambedkar’s contribution in the field of management of India’s water resources is not widely known.
- During his tenure as Member (Labour) of the Viceroy’s Executive Council (1942-1946), Dr. Ambedkar steered formation of a definite All-India Policy for the development of water resources in the country.
- In order to further this task, he laid foundation of Central Waterways, Irrigation and Navigation Commission (CWINC) which was forerunner of the present day Central Water Commission (CWC).
- Dr. Ambedkar advocated the concept of River Valley Authority or corporation for integrated development of the rivers.
- He introduced the concept of multi-purpose development of river basin in the country and his efforts in this direction have culminated with multipurpose development of Damodar, Mahanadi and other rivers immediately after independence.
- He was instrumental in inclusion of Entry 56 of List 1 and introduction of article 262 regarding the adjudication of disputes related to waters of inter-state rivers or river valleys.
