Telugu States need to avoid disputes over sharing of water, says Chandrababu Naidu

The statement by Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu, urging the avoidance of water disputes with Telangana and advocating for river interlinking, brings to the forefront one of India's most persistent and complex challenges: inter-state water management. This issue is particularly acute in the context of the Godavari River, a lifeline for both Telugu states.

**Background Context:** The bifurcation of Andhra Pradesh on June 2, 2014, to create Telangana, fundamentally altered the landscape of water resource management in the region. Prior to this, water resources, particularly from the Krishna and Godavari rivers, were managed within a single state framework, albeit with internal regional claims. Post-bifurcation, these rivers became inter-state rivers between Andhra Pradesh and the newly formed Telangana, necessitating new agreements and mechanisms for water sharing. The Godavari, being the second-longest river in India, flows through several states before reaching Andhra Pradesh and Telangana, making its management inherently complex. Both states are heavily reliant on its waters for irrigation, drinking, and industrial purposes, especially given the drought-prone nature of many regions.

**What Happened:** Chief Minister Naidu's remarks indicate a strategic shift towards cooperative resource management rather than conflict. He explicitly stated his focus on utilizing surplus Godavari water, which otherwise flows into the Bay of Bengal, through river interlinking projects to combat drought in Andhra Pradesh. This approach contrasts with the alleged stance of the opposition in A.P., which he claims seeks disputes with Telangana. Naidu's emphasis on interlinking highlights a long-standing national vision for water security, aiming to transfer water from surplus basins to deficit ones.

**Key Stakeholders Involved:** The primary stakeholders are the **Governments of Andhra Pradesh and Telangana**, representing their respective populations, particularly farmers. The **Central Government**, through the Ministry of Jal Shakti, plays a crucial role as an adjudicator and facilitator, especially in forming tribunals under the Inter-State River Water Disputes Act, 1956. **Farmers** in both states are direct beneficiaries or sufferers of water availability and policy decisions. **Environmental groups** are also key stakeholders, raising concerns about the ecological impact of large-scale projects like river interlinking. Finally, **political parties** in both states, including ruling and opposition, influence the discourse and policy direction.

**Why This Matters for India:** Inter-state water disputes are a significant challenge to India's federal structure and national unity. Unresolved disputes can lead to social unrest, economic disruption, and political instability. For India, efficient water management is critical for food security, as agriculture is heavily dependent on irrigation. The Godavari dispute, if escalated, could hinder regional development, impact industrial growth, and divert resources from other essential sectors. Naidu's call for cooperation underscores the importance of cooperative federalism in resolving resource-sharing issues. Furthermore, the concept of river interlinking, if implemented judiciously, could address regional water imbalances, enhance navigability, and generate hydropower, contributing to national development and energy security.

**Historical Context:** India has a long history of inter-state water disputes, with major rivers like Cauvery, Krishna, and Mahanadi being subjects of protracted conflicts. The legal framework for these disputes was established early, with **Article 262 of the Constitution** empowering Parliament to legislate on the adjudication of disputes relating to the waters of inter-State rivers or river valleys. Pursuant to this, the **Inter-State River Water Disputes Act, 1956**, was enacted, providing for the constitution of tribunals. The Godavari itself has been subject to previous tribunals, like the Godavari Water Disputes Tribunal (GWDT) which gave its award in 1980. Post-bifurcation, the existing agreements needed re-evaluation, leading to renewed potential for disputes. The idea of river interlinking gained traction with the National Perspective Plan (NPP) formulated by the Ministry of Irrigation in 1980, aiming to transfer water from water-surplus basins to water-deficit basins.

**Future Implications:** The path forward involves both challenges and opportunities. Cooperation between Andhra Pradesh and Telangana is paramount. The Central government's role in facilitating dialogue and potentially forming a new tribunal or modifying existing awards for the Godavari will be crucial. River interlinking projects, while offering a long-term solution to water scarcity, come with substantial financial, environmental, and social costs. Careful environmental impact assessments, rehabilitation plans for displaced populations, and transparent governance are essential for their successful implementation. Success in resolving these disputes could set a precedent for other inter-state water issues, strengthening India's federal cooperative mechanisms. Conversely, continued disputes could strain federal relations and impede developmental progress in the region. The emphasis must be on sustainable water management practices, including rainwater harvesting, groundwater recharge, and efficient irrigation techniques, alongside large-scale infrastructure projects.