India’s Rice Production Strains Water Resources
- India overtook China as the world’s largest rice producer, exporting over 20 million metric tonnes.
- Rice farming in Punjab and Haryana is depleting groundwater.
- Government subsidies, including high rice prices and power support, encourage water-intensive cultivation.
- Producing 1 kg of rice uses 3,000–4,000 liters of water, 20–60% above the global average.
