Appraisal of Green and Blue Water Footprint for Rice Production in Uttar Pradesh, India

Abstract

As freshwater resources are increasingly being strained by population increase, urbanization, climate change and industrialization, sustainability and water scarcity have emerged as urgent worldwide challenge. The idea of the water footprint has become a useful tool for measuring and managing water use in a variety of sectors mainly in agriculture. Taking into account the significance of the water footprint concept, this paper aims at calculating the water foot-print of rice production in nine agro-climatic zones of Uttar Pradesh, India, using local meteorological data and a methodology outlined in the water footprint assessment manual. This assessment will provide valuable information for policymakers, water managers, farmers and government officials to formulate water management strategies implement water pricing mechanisms and develop agricultural policies that promote sustainable water use.