Ecological needs of the river have been recognized as one of the uses of water in the National Water Policy (2012). In the Preamble of the policy, it is mentioned that ‘water is essential for sustenance of eco-system, and therefore, minimum ecological needs should be given due consideration’. Clause 3.3 specifies that “A portion of river flows should be kept aside to meet ecological needs ensuring that the low and high releases are proportional to the natural flow regime, including base flow contribution in the low flow season through regulated ground water uses”.