Published Paper Details:

The groundwater in the Birbhum district of West Bengal plays a critical role in meeting domestic, agricultural, and industrial needs. However, it is increasingly threatened by contamination from various inorganic pollutants. Naturally occurring elements such as fluoride, arsenic, iron, and manganese, alongwith anthropogenic substances like nitrate, phosphate, and heavy metals, have been identified at concentrations that exceed permissible limits in several parts of the district. These pollutants arise from both geogenic processes, including the weathering of mineral-laden rocks, and human activities such as unregulated mining, huge agricultural activity, and industrial effluents. This review provides a comprehensive overview of the occurrence, hydrogeochemical behaviour, and spatial distribution of different inorganic pollutant found in this region. It also highlights both traditional and innovative methods for detection and removal techniques of inorganic pollutants from groundwater. Finally, the review addresses the main challenges, including seasonal fluctuations, inadequate infrastructure, and community involvement, and suggests future directions for developing low-cost, decentralized, and sustainable groundwater treatment systems.