Bhu-Neer” Portal

Source: This post on Bhu-Neer” Portal has been created based on the article “HMJS launches “Bhu-Neer” Portal for ground water withdrawal permits” published in PIB on 21st November 2024.

Why in news?

The “Bhu-Neer” portal was officially launched during the concluding ceremony of India Water Week 2024.

About the Portal

1. About: The “Bhu-Neer” portal is an initiative to regulate and manage groundwater resources effectively.

2. Developed by: The Central Ground Water Authority (CGWA) under the Ministry of Jal Shakti, in collaboration with the National Informatics Centre (NIC).

3. Goal: The primary goal of the portal is to enhance groundwater management and regulation across the country.

4. The “Bhu-Neer” portal is now live and available for public access. Project proponents can visit the portal for groundwater-related applications, clarifications, tracking the status of their requests, and making necessary statutory payments.

Key Features of the “Bhu-Neer” Portal

1. Comprehensive Groundwater Resource Management: The portal offers a centralized database that provides access to the legal frameworks governing groundwater extraction. It also includes detailed information on regulations at both state and national levels. This feature promotes transparency and sustainability in groundwater resource management.

2. User-Friendly Design: The portal has been designed with a simplified and informative interface to ensure a smooth user experience. It offers an efficient and streamlined process for obtaining groundwater withdrawal permits.

3. Innovative Functionalities: The “Bhu-Neer” portal incorporates several advanced features, such as a PAN-based single ID system that simplifies user identification. Additionally, the portal generates No Objection Certificates (NOCs) with integrated QR codes, enhancing convenience and traceability.

4. Enhanced Accessibility: Users of the portal can track the status of their applications, make statutory payments, and seek clarifications or assistance regarding groundwater withdrawal.

5. The “Bhu-Neer” portal represents a significant improvement over the previous NOCAP system. It has been designed to make groundwater regulation a more efficient, transparent, and user-friendly process. This aligns with the government’s broader goal of promoting the ease of doing business.

Significance of the Portal

The launch of “Bhu-Neer” is an important step toward realizing the Hon’ble Prime Minister’s vision of “Ease of Doing Business.” The portal makes groundwater regulation a seamless and faceless process. It also emphasizes sustainable practices, ensuring responsible groundwater usage across industries and individuals.

UPSC Syllabus: Government initiative and schemes, Environment