Ambivalence des eaux souterraines dans le journal The Hindu : promouvoir leur préservation tout en accueillant des justifications de leur exploitation

Abstract

This text analyses the wording and picturing of groundwater, eventually out of sight, by a specific instrument, The Hindu. This journal, one of the most read Indian newspapers, contributes to make these resources more visible and promotes their conservation while justifying exploitation. We identified four types of qualifications of groundwater going with different management approaches: (a) endangered heritage whose access must be regulated, (b) limited resource that must be optimized, (c) issue of survival with access ensured and (d) a source of emancipation that must be granted. The analysis invites to consider carefully the multivalence of groundwater and the arrangements between preservation and necessary uses.