The water that is found under the ground in the cracks and spaces in the soil, sand or rocks is called groundwater. It is utilized as drinking water, for crop irrigation, and in industries. Arid regions of India are characterized by limited sources of surface water as well as low precipitation rates. Hence, they have a major dependence on groundwater for domestic and agricultural requirements. If overexploitation of this source occurs, it will have serious consequences on the economy and social life of the region.

A lowering in the groundwater level would lead to increased costs in pumping for the same which cannot be afforded by everyone. Lowering of groundwater levels will also lead to increased salinization which would ultimately affect the water quality and render it unusable in the future. This can lead to a lowering in agricultural production in the area, leading to food shortage and drought.