A research project into the impact of rainwater harvesting in India on groundwater quality led by Dr Alison Parker from Cranfield University and Dr Anupma Sharma from the National Institute of Hydrology, Roorkee, India is among a number of projects to be delivered within the UK-India Water Quality programme.

UK Science Minister Jo Johnson and Indian Minister of State for Science and Technology Y S Chowdary recently announced a number of UK-India joint research projects including the Cranfield University/National Institute of Hydrology project.

The India-UK Water Quality programme aims to support policymakers, water managers, business and local communities to improve India’s water quality.

The research project will combine fieldwork, laboratory testing and modelling simulations. The findings from the research will be used to generate recommendations on how rainwater harvesting can be used to reduce fluoride contamination of groundwater.

Dr Alison Parker, Lecturer in International Water and Sanitation at Cranfield University, said:

“Groundwater is still the main source of fresh water in many parts of the world. This includes Rajasthan in Western India where rainwater harvesting is being used to replenish groundwater and provide a safe reliable water supply.”

Commenting on the announcement of the joint UK-India research projects Y S Chowdary, Indian Minister of State for Science & Technology and Earth Sciences, said:

“India is exponentially growing its science capability and using science and technology to transform society. Our collaboration with the UK shows how partnerships of the highest quality can help both countries advance, as well as have a global positive impact for sustainable development.”

The announcement comes a year after the vision for the India-UK Strategic Partnership was made by both the UK and Indian Prime Ministers.