The question asks to identify the Indian state among the given options that does NOT have high levels of groundwater utilization. Groundwater utilization refers to the amount of groundwater extracted for various purposes, primarily irrigation, compared to the total available groundwater resources.

Groundwater Utilization Levels in Indian States

Understanding groundwater utilization is crucial for sustainable water management. States with intensive agriculture, high population density, and limited surface water availability often show higher groundwater extraction rates. Let's examine the states mentioned:

States with High Groundwater Utilization

• Haryana: This state is characterized by intensive agriculture, particularly the cultivation of crops like wheat and rice, which require significant irrigation. Historically, the Green Revolution boosted agricultural output here, leading to increased reliance on groundwater. Consequently, Haryana faces challenges related to over-exploitation of groundwater resources, often resulting in declining water tables.
• Punjab: Similar to Haryana, Punjab has a heavily agriculture-dependent economy. Extensive irrigation infrastructure, developed over decades, relies significantly on groundwater pumping. This has led to very high rates of groundwater extraction, making it one of the most critical states in terms of groundwater stress.
• Tamil Nadu: This southern state also experiences high groundwater utilization. Facing challenges with monsoon reliability and surface water scarcity in many regions, groundwater is a vital source for irrigation and domestic water supply. This heavy dependence has led to significant depletion in several districts.

State with Lower Groundwater Utilization

• Odisha: Compared to Haryana, Punjab, and Tamil Nadu, Odisha generally has lower levels of groundwater utilization. While agriculture is important, the state benefits from relatively higher rainfall and more dependable surface water resources from major rivers like the Mahanadi, Brahmani, and Baitarani. The agricultural practices and irrigation methods in Odisha are often less groundwater-intensive than in the northwestern states. Therefore, Odisha is less stressed regarding groundwater abstraction.

Based on the general patterns of groundwater exploitation in India, Odisha stands out as the state among the choices that does NOT typically exhibit high levels of groundwater utilization compared to the other states listed.