Journal Articles

The European experience of river basin management (RBM) is often considered a template for many
emerging nations. Europe demonstrated the successful implementation of river restoration programmes
for some of its most complex and important trans boundary river basins, such as the Rhine and Danube.
Recent developments suggest that India too is inspired by the European river basin management model
and aspires for a paradigm shift in its approach to river management—by recalibrating its existing plans,
policies, and programmes to be responsive to the integrated needs of its river system.

The flagship Namami Gange Programme (NGP) under the Ministry of Jal Shakti (MoJS) is one such
instance. However, few acknowledge the significant divergence that exists between the two regions in
terms of political economy, sectoral orientations, and the historical context of the institutions that are
engaged in water management.

The authors employ some key observations that emerged from research on the relevance and fit of the European experience of river basin management in India to highlight some key policy, institutional, and political processes that were pivotal to the European model, and locate them within India’s federal water
governance framework. The article argues that an examination of the structural differences in hydroclimatic conditions, socio-political context, institutional attributes, and water policy processes
between the two regions will be critical to identifying the key lessons from Europe that could strengthen
India’s river rejuvenation journey.

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