Socioeconomic consequences of groundwater depletion: A case study of Haryana

Abstract

Groundwater depletion presents a significant threat to agricultural sustainability in Haryana, one of India’s most intensively cultivated states. This study investigates the socioeconomic and environmental consequences of declining groundwater levels by assessing their effects on the cost of cultivating rice and wheat, irrigation-related capital investments, rural migration and key ecological outcomes. Primary data were collected from 220 farmers across selected districts through structured surveys, supplemented by secondary data from official sources. Cost-of-cultivation analysis and Garrett ranking techniques were used to evaluate economic and environmental impacts. Results indicate that groundwater depletion increases cultivation costs by 5–10 %, primarily due to increased irrigation and energy expenditures associated with deeper groundwater extraction. Farmers in overexploited areas are making greater investments in borewells and pumping technologies, resulting in increased indebtedness and financial vulnerability, especially among smallholders. Water stress is closely linked to rural migration, as reduced farm viability compels households to pursue non-farm livelihoods. Major environmental concerns identified include land subsidence, soil salinisation, declining groundwater quality, wetland degradation and biodiversity loss. The study concludes that groundwater depletion represents a structural challenge to farm economics, rural livelihoods and ecological sustainability, underscoring the necessity for integrated water management, crop diversification and policy reforms.