<h1>Panel Urges Formation of National Task Force to Tackle Water Demand-Supply Gap; Highlights Urgent Need for Action</h1> A parliamentary panel has recommended the establishment of a national task force to address the water demand and supply gap in India. The Standing Committee on Water Resources highlighted that population growth, industrialization, urbanization, and climate change have exacerbated water scarcity, impacting economic progress. The committee urged the Jal Shakti Ministry to expedite the formation of the National Task Force on Integrated Water Resources Development and Management and ensure timely implementation of water-related schemes. India's current usable water is 1,139 BCM annually, with future demands projected to reach 1,180 BCM by 2050. Strategies include enhancing water use efficiency and increasing storage capacity.