Application of Hydrological Modeling in Real-World Scenarios in India: a Critical Review

Hydrological modeling plays a pivotal role in understanding, managing, and predicting water resources, particularly in a diverse and climate-sensitive country like India. This review critically examines the real-world applications of hydrological models across various Indian regions, emphasizing their relevance in flood forecasting, watershed management, irrigation planning, and climate change impact assessment. Models such as SWAT, HEC-HMS, MIKE SHE, and VIC have been widely employed in both rural and urban hydrological studies, each with specific strengths and limitations depending on the terrain, data availability, and climatic conditions. The review highlights key case studies from states like Maharashtra, Tamil Nadu, Kerala, and Uttarakhand, showcasing both successful implementations and challenges in calibration, validation, and integration with remote sensing and GIS technologies. Despite the advancements, significant gaps remain in model accuracy, stakeholder engagement, and the translation of model outputs into policy decisions. The paper concludes by recommending strategies for enhanced data integration, model customization, and interdisciplinary collaboration to improve the effectiveness of hydrological modeling in addressing India’s pressing water-related challenges.