NCERT Class 10 Social Science Contemporary India: Chapter 3 — Water Resources
This chapter, 'Water Resources,' from NCERT Class 10 Social Science's Contemporary India book, discusses the critical issue of water scarcity. It highlights that despite Earth's surface being largely covered by water, freshwater availability is limited. The chapter explains that water scarcity is often caused by over-exploitation, excessive use, and unequal access, rather than just low rainfall. It details how growing populations and increased demand for food production lead to the over-exploitation of water resources for agriculture. The text also touches upon the paradox of water scarcity in regions with abundant water, often seen in urban areas. It emphasizes the need for water conservation and management to ensure sustainable access to this vital resource for future generations, crucial for CBSE curriculum understanding.
Quick info
| Board | CBSE / NCERT |
|---|---|
| Class | Class 10 |
| Subject | Social Science |
| Book | Contemporary India |
| Chapter | Chapter 3 — Water Resources |
| Language | English |
| PDF type | NCERT Textbook |
| Session | CBSE 2026 |
| Reading time | 2 minutes |
| Word count | 226 |
Learning outcomes
- Understand the concept of water scarcity and its causes.
- Analyze the reasons for water scarcity beyond low rainfall.
- Recognize the impact of population growth and agriculture on water resources.
- Appreciate the need for water conservation and management.
Vocabulary
| Word | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Hydrological cycle | The continuous movement of water on, above, and below the surface of the Earth. |
| Water scarcity | Lack of sufficient available water resources to meet the demands of a region. |
| Over-exploitation | Using a resource more than its natural rate of replenishment. |
| Renewable resource | A natural resource which can be replenished naturally over time. |
| Precipitation | Any product of the condensation of atmospheric water vapor that falls under gravity. |
| Surface run off | Water flow occurring on the ground surface when excess rainwater, stormwater, meltwater, or other sources can no longer sufficiently rapidly infiltrate in the soil. |
| Groundwater | Water held underground in the soil or in pores and crevices in rock. |
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Practice questions
- What is the main reason for water scarcity, according to the chapter? Answer: Water scarcity is mainly caused by over-exploitation, excessive use, and unequal access to water, in addition to variations in rainfall.
- Why is agriculture a major consumer of water? Answer: Agriculture requires significant water to expand irrigated areas for dry-season agriculture and to produce more food to meet the demands of a large population.
- Can a region with abundant water resources still face water scarcity? Explain. Answer: Yes, a region can face water scarcity due to large and growing populations, consequent greater demands for water, and unequal access to it, as seen in many cities.
- What is the role of the hydrological cycle in water resources? Answer: The hydrological cycle ensures that water is a renewable resource by continually renewing and recharging freshwater through processes like precipitation, surface run off, and groundwater.
Frequently asked questions
How much of the Earth's surface is covered with water?
Three-fourth of the Earth's surface is covered with water.
Is all the water on Earth usable freshwater?
No, only a small proportion of the Earth's water is freshwater that can be put to use.
What is the hydrological cycle?
The hydrological cycle is the process through which all water moves, ensuring that water is a renewable resource.
What are the main causes of water scarcity?
Water scarcity is primarily caused by over-exploitation, excessive use, and unequal access to water resources.
Why is irrigated agriculture a significant consumer of water?
Irrigated agriculture is the largest consumer of water because it is expanded to produce more food for a growing population.
Can water scarcity occur in regions with high rainfall?
Yes, water scarcity can occur even in regions with ample water resources due to factors like large populations and unequal distribution.
When is it predicted that nearly two billion people will live in absolute water scarcity?
It is predicted that by 2025, nearly two billion people will live in absolute water scarcity.
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NCERT Class 10 Social Science — Contemporary India — Chapter 3 — Water Resources. Verified by NCERT Help Editorial Team. Reviewed on 29 Jul 2026. Last updated 10 Aug 2026.