| Title |
Role of indirect groundwater recharge using recycled water in promoting food security in semi-arid regions |
| ID_Doc |
14477 |
| Authors |
Manisha, M; Verma, K; Narayanaswamy, R; Marigoudar, SR; Hoysall, NC; Rao, LKARYA |
| Title |
Role of indirect groundwater recharge using recycled water in promoting food security in semi-arid regions |
| Year |
2024 |
| Published |
|
| DOI |
10.1007/s10668-024-05249-2 |
| Abstract |
Water scarcity, drought, and climate change threaten food security in developing countries like India, hindering efforts to reduce hunger, malnutrition, and promote cognitive development. This study investigates the impact of indirect groundwater (GW) recharge using secondary treated wastewater (STW) on food security in drought-prone Kolar district, Karnataka. Household surveys assessed household food insecurity access scale (HFIAS) and food consumption score (FCS) to measure food security. Food security was statistically compared between impacted areas (GW recharge by STW) and non-impacted areas (GW without recharge by STW). Results indicate higher agricultural production and diversification in impacted areas due to improved access to shallow GW for irrigation, leading to increased cropping area and extended cropping seasons. This translated to greater food security, with 92% of households in impacted areas achieving "mildly food insecure" on the HFIAS scale, compared to 30% falling under the "moderately insecure" category in non-impacted areas. Furthermore, the FCS score revealed a more diverse and nutritious diet in impacted areas. Binary logistic regression analysis identified that household income, cropping land, and crop production as key determinants of food security. These findings provide evidence that GW recharge using STW initiatives positively impacts agricultural development and food security, offering a sustainable approach in drought-prone regions. This study aligns with Sustainable Development Goal 2 (Zero Hunger) and circular economy principles. It emphasizes the need for policy formulations that integrate wastewater management with GW recharge, prioritizing environmental and public health considerations. Such policies can significantly enhance food security and socio-economic development in the face of climate change, drought, and water scarcity. Collaborative efforts between water, agriculture, and environmental sectors are crucial for developing comprehensive solutions to food security and wastewater management challenges. |
| Author Keywords |
Agricultural production; Food security; Groundwater recharge; Sustainability; Wastewater reuse |
| Index Keywords |
Index Keywords |
| Document Type |
Other |
| Open Access |
Open Access |
| Source |
Science Citation Index Expanded (SCI-EXPANDED) |
| EID |
WOS:001273113700002 |
| WoS Category |
Green & Sustainable Science & Technology; Environmental Sciences |
| Research Area |
Science & Technology - Other Topics; Environmental Sciences & Ecology |
| PDF |
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