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1 July 2026

Rajasthan-Haryana Yamuna water-sharing agreement

The topic involves an inter-state water-sharing agreement and the implementation of a long-standing river board framework, which are core issues in Indian federalism and natural resource management frequently tested in UPSC Mains.

1 min read Day 2 of 2 2 questions 1 prelims

Notes

  • Rajasthan and Haryana signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to implement the 1994 Upper Yamuna River Board (UYRB) agreement.
  • The agreement aims to provide water to the water-scarce Shekhawati region of Rajasthan.
  • The UYRB agreement is a long-standing inter-state water-sharing framework that has faced implementation delays over several decades.
  • Issues persist regarding the delivery of water under the Rajiv-Longowal Accord, specifically involving a pending share of 0.8 million cubic metres of water.
  • Inter-state river water disputes remain a challenge in India, often involving complex negotiations between state governments and the Centre.
  • Concerns have been raised regarding the efficiency of canal infrastructure and the maintenance of water supply systems during repair periods.

Part of a longer story

This is day 2 of 2 in Rajasthan-Haryana Yamuna water-sharing implementation, which has been running since 30 June 2026. Reading it whole is usually worth more than reading today alone — the exam asks how something developed.

Questions

  1. Discuss the constitutional and institutional mechanisms available for the resolution of inter-state river water disputes in India. How can the implementation of long-pending agreements be accelerated to ensure equitable water distribution? 150 words
    Attempt this — 150 words in 8 min
    0 / 150 words 8:00
  2. The federal structure of India often faces challenges in managing shared natural resources like river water. Analyze the role of inter-state river boards in balancing the competing interests of states and the necessity of cooperative federalism in addressing water scarcity. 250 words
    Attempt this — 250 words in 11 min
    0 / 250 words 11:00

Prelims

  1. The Upper Yamuna River Board (UYRB) was established to regulate the allocation of water among the beneficiary states of the Yamuna river. Which of the following is the primary objective of such inter-state river boards?