Analyse in detail the inter-state water dispute with reference to sharing of Kaveri river water. Describe how far India has been successful in developing solar power as a non-conventional energy source.

The Kaveri (Cauvery) river water dispute is a longstanding and complex issue involving the states of Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, Kerala, and Puducherry. The dispute revolves around the equitable distribution of the Kaveri River water among these states, each of which relies on the river for irrigation, drinking water, and other needs. Here's a breakdown of the dispute:-

1. Karnataka-Tamil Nadu:- The primary conflict is between Karnataka and Tamil Nadu. Karnataka, where the Kaveri River originates, argues that it needs more water for its own agricultural and irrigation needs, especially during drought years. Tamil Nadu, which lies downstream, claims historical usage rights and emphasizes the need for water to maintain its agricultural activities and provide for its population.

2. Sharing Formula:- The sharing formula has been a point of contention. Various agreements, tribunals, and court orders have attempted to allocate a fair share of water to each state. The most notable among these is the Cauvery Water Disputes Tribunal (CWDT) award of 2007, which proposed a water-sharing arrangement based on water availability and the needs of each state.

3. Legal Battles:-The dispute has resulted in numerous legal battles, protests, and conflicts over the years. The states have contested the allocations and have had difficulty adhering to the tribunal's decisions due to changing water availability, political considerations, and differing interpretations of the agreements.

4. Role of Mediation and Supreme Court:- The Indian Supreme Court has intervened at various points to ensure compliance with agreements and orders. It has also attempted to mediate between the conflicting parties and encourage dialogue. However, achieving a lasting resolution has proven to be challenging.

5. Resolution Challenges:- The Kaveri River water dispute highlights the complex nature of water-sharing disputes, where multiple states with varying needs and perspectives are involved. The dispute also underscores the importance of evolving legal frameworks, better water management practices, and dispute resolution mechanisms.

Solar Power Development in India:-

India has made significant strides in developing solar power as a non-conventional energy source. The country has taken several measures to promote solar energy and address its growing energy needs while aiming to reduce its carbon footprint. Here's an analysis of India's progress in solar power:

1. National Solar Mission: Launched in 2010, the National Solar Mission set an ambitious target of deploying 20 GW of solar capacity by 2022. This target was later increased to 100 GW by 2022 and further extended to 175 GW by 2022 under the larger umbrella of renewable energy goals.

2. Solar Capacity Growth: India's solar capacity has experienced exponential growth, with the country exceeding its initial targets. As of my knowledge cutoff in September 2021, India had achieved around 40 GW of solar capacity, making it one of the world's largest solar markets.

3. Policy Support: The government introduced various policies to promote solar energy, such as incentives for solar projects, tax benefits, subsidies, and competitive bidding processes for project allocation. The implementation of the Goods and Services Tax (GST) also simplified the tax structure for solar projects.

4. International Collaboration: India has also partnered with international organizations and countries to enhance solar energy technology, research, and development. Initiatives like the International Solar Alliance (ISA) aim to promote solar energy globally.

5. Challenges: Despite the progress, challenges remain. Land acquisition, financing, grid integration, and intermittency are issues that need to be addressed. Additionally, achieving the 175 GW target by 2022 requires sustained efforts and investments.

6. Economic and Environmental Benefits: Solar energy contributes to India's energy security, reduces greenhouse gas emissions, and has the potential to create jobs in the renewable energy sector.

In conclusion, while the Kaveri River water dispute exemplifies the complexity of inter-state water conflicts, India's efforts in solar power development showcase the country's commitment to transitioning towards cleaner and more sustainable energy sources. The successful growth of solar power capacity reflects India's determination to address energy security and environmental concerns through technological innovation and policy support.