There is an increasing policy engagement and advocacy emerging from various fronts on the possible European commitments and collaboration in the management of India’s river basins. One of the key learning experiences that is often suggested in this context is to reflect on Europe’s policy frameworks and institutional structures for improved outcomes from India’s river rejuvenation programmes. In India, the past decade witnessed an unprecedented focus and budgetary support by the Government of India (GoI) on river restoration, starting with the Namami Gange Programme (NGP). India is contemplating expanding Namami Gange’s experiences into a policy ecosystem to revitalise its rivers. The Ministry of Jal Shakti (MoJS) recently commissioned a large-scale study on assessment and management plans for six river basins in India, namely Mahanadi, Narmada, Godavari, Krishna, Cauvery, and Periyar, for improved river management along the lines of the NGP. In this context, how does the European experience offer insights to inform programmes like the NGP? In this commentary, we briefly outline some of the legal and institutional facets of the European experience and the lessons it holds for India.
From Rhine to Ganges: Navigating Legal and Institutional Waters