This book is a unique compilation of different water conservation and management practices that have traditionally been used in the state of Karnataka. Each practice is simple, low-cost and in harmony with the local conditions. Based on the knowledge drawn from within the community, each article not only documents the practice, but also attempts to explain scientific principles underlying the same.

A number of dimensions and resources need to be converged for preparing a roadmap to sustainability. The most critical among these are technical know-how, human capital and financial resources. This document is an effort towards presenting a basic framework for the mobilization of these resources and dimensions. The document has been structured into various themes that need to be interwoven for a framework of sustainability in the drinking water sector.

Rising energy prices, geopolitics and concerns over the impacts of green house gas emissions on climate change are increasing the demand for biofuel production. This paper explores the land and water implications of increased biofuel production globally and with special focus on these two important countries, using the WATERSIM model. It concludes that, although of minor concern at global level, local and regional impacts could be substantial.