New Delhi, Nov 6 (IANS/ 101 Reporters): A recent conversation between Shreya Jai and Aditi Mukherji highlights critical issues surrounding water security and climate adaptation in India. Mukherji, an expert in water resource management, underscores the importance of water in climate adaptation and discusses India's challenges in addressing these issues.

She also delves into the outcomes of COP26 and emphasizes the need for greater cooperation, both domestically and internationally, to ensure water security in vulnerable regions. Furthermore, she provides insights into India's "Har Ghar Jal" mission and its potential impact on providing tap water to all households.

In conversation with India Energy Hour, Aditi Mukherji, Principal Researcher, takes a deep dive into the importance of water security in India's climate adaptation efforts, emphasizing the significance of solar irrigation, the Kusum project, and the need for policy coherence and cooperation in addressing climate resilience challenges.

Climate change mitigation vs. adaptation

Mukherji starts by emphasizing the crucial distinction between climate change mitigation and adaptation. While mitigation aims to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, adaptation focuses on preparing for and responding to the impacts of climate change.

In the context of India, where agriculture significantly contributes to carbon emissions, solar irrigation emerges as a promising adaptation strategy. Solar pumps offer an eco-friendly alternative to traditional energy sources, mitigating emissions without harming farmers' incomes.

The Kusum project, abbreviated as "Pradhan Mantri Kisan Urja Suraksha evam Utthaan Mahabhiyan", encompasses various components aimed at promoting solar irrigation. Mukherji describes three models within the Kusum project:

Kusum A: This model centralizes solar panels, creating solar grids connected to the main electrical grid. Farmers continue to use existing equipment, ensuring minimal disruption.

Kusum B: Standalone solar pumps are provided to farmers, enabling them to harness solar energy for irrigation independently.

Kusum C: Farmers install solar panels on their fields, connecting them to the grid. This model allows farmers to access electricity from the grid while also contributing excess energy, offering a balanced exchange.

Mukherji emphasizes the importance of having multiple models and the need for flexibility to cater to diverse agricultural and geographical conditions in India. The success of these models depends on the effectiveness and professionalism of state discoms (distribution companies).

Challenges in adapting to climate change

Shreya Jai raises the question of India's readiness to address climate adaptation, discussing the challenges related to water scarcity, policy, and cooperation.

Aditi Mukherji underscores the need for India to prioritize climate resilience in its policies and decision-making. While adaptation is crucial, many development projects continue to prioritize economic growth over climate resilience.

In the context of water security, transboundary cooperation is vital, especially in South Asia.

Mukherji acknowledges the historical issues surrounding water sharing but encourages a shift away from the zero-sum mentality. She suggests that cooperation should focus on shared goals, early warning systems, and collaboration around natural disasters.

Mukherji discusses the importance of region-specific cooperation. Initiatives like the Himalayan Council could address issues related to melting glaciers and shared water resources. However, Mukherji stresses that cooperation should not be limited to technological solutions but should also address the protection of catchment areas and water sources.

The "Har Ghar Jal" mission

Shreya Jai brings up the recent development of India's "Har Ghar Jal" mission, a nationwide effort to provide tap water to all households. While Mukherji sees the potential in this initiative, she raises concerns about the focus on construction rather than addressing the source of water. She stresses the importance of empowering local municipalities and ensuring the sustainability of water sources.

Aditi Mukherji's insights shed light on the intricate relationship between water security and climate adaptation in India.

While progress is being made through initiatives like the "Har Ghar Jal" mission, challenges related to water sources, policy coherence, and climate adaptation remain. Cooperation, both domestically and internationally, is crucial in addressing these issues and building a more climate-resilient future for India.

Water security and climate adaptation must become central to policy discussions to protect vulnerable communities and ensure sustainable development.