HMJS Launches “Bhu-Neer” Portal for Groundwater Permits

Shri C.R. Paatil, the Hon’ble Minister of Jal Shakti, digitally launched the “Bhu-Neer” portal during the concluding ceremony of India Water Week 2024. The portal, developed by the Central Ground Water Authority (CGWA) in collaboration with the National Informatics Centre (NIC), aims to improve groundwater regulation in India. The initiative aligns with the Government’s focus on transparency, efficiency, and sustainability in groundwater management.

Key Features of the “Bhu-Neer” Portal

Developed by CGWA & NIC

• Created to streamline the regulation of groundwater extraction across India.
• Aims to simplify processes for project proponents seeking groundwater withdrawal permits.

One-Stop Platform for Groundwater Regulation

• Centralized database for managing and regulating groundwater resources.
• Provides access to key information regarding groundwater compliance, policies, and sustainable practices.
• Facilitates transparency and efficiency in groundwater management.

User-Friendly Interface

Simplified features such as a PAN-based single ID system.

• Provides NOC (No Objection Certificate) with a QR code for easy verification.
• Easy-to-navigate design for smoother user interaction and quicker access to groundwater regulation information.

Streamlined Permit Process

• Aimed at improving the efficiency of obtaining groundwater withdrawal permits.
• The platform enables tracking of application status, making it easier for users to follow up.
• Alignment with PM’s Vision of Ease of Doing Business
• The launch is part of efforts to make regulatory processes more transparent, efficient, and faceless, aligning with the Prime Minister’s vision of Ease of Doing Business.

Public Availability

• The “Bhu-Neer” portal is now live for all project proponents to access.
• It provides a platform for clarifications, payment of statutory charges, and tracking applications related to groundwater withdrawal.

Impact of the Portal

Increased Transparency

• By centralizing data and simplifying the regulatory process, “Bhu-Neer” ensures more accessible and transparent groundwater usage practices.

Boost to Sustainability

• The portal encourages the implementation of sustainable groundwater extraction practices, helping protect this vital resource for future generations.

Improved Regulatory Efficiency

• The digital platform reduces manual intervention, streamlining groundwater management processes and reducing bureaucratic hurdles.

Supports National and State Regulations

• The portal ensures adherence to national and state-level regulations regarding groundwater extraction.

Summary/Static	Details
Why in the news?	The Hon’ble Minister of Jal Shakti, digitally launched the “Bhu-Neer” portal
Developed By	Central Ground Water Authority (CGWA) & National Informatics Centre (NIC)
Purpose	To improve groundwater regulation, ensuring transparency, efficiency, and sustainability.
Target Users	Project proponents seeking groundwater withdrawal permits.
Key Features	– PAN-based single ID system – NOC with QR code – Simplified, user-friendly interface
Main Objective	To streamline the groundwater withdrawal permit process and improve ease of doing business.
Impact on Groundwater Use	– Increases transparency – Promotes sustainable practices – Facilitates tracking of applications
Public Accessibility	The portal is now live for public use, offering services like application tracking, payment of charges, and clarifications.
Government Vision	Aligns with the Prime Minister’s vision of “Ease of Doing Business” by making regulatory processes seamless.
Regulatory Focus	Provides information on groundwater compliance, policies, and regulations at the state and national levels.