Blitz Bureau
THESE positive outcomes are the result of collaborative efforts between state and Central governments. The Government of India has launched various initiatives to preserve water and ensure its availability for future generations.
Key schemes include: Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Scheme includes water conservation and water harvesting structures, enhancing rural water security. The 15th Finance Commission Grants provides financial assistance to states for rainwater harvesting and other water conservation activities. Launched in 201, the Jal Shakti Abhiyan focuses on rainwater harvesting and water conservation across rural and urban districts through convergence of various schemes. The Atal Mission for Rejuvenation and Urban Transformation (AMRUT) 2.0 supports rainwater harvesting via stormwater drains and promotes groundwater recharge through ‘Aquifer Management Plans’.
States guidelines
The Ministry of Housing & Urban Affairs has formulated guidelines for the states to adopt measures suitable to local conditions, such as Unified Building Bye Laws (UBBL) of Delhi, 2016, Model Building Bye Laws (MBBL), 2016, and Urban and Regional Development Plan Formulation and Implementation (URDPFI) Guidelines, 2014, with adequate focus on requirement of rainwater harvesting and water conservation measures.
The Atal Bhujal Yojana targets water-stressed Gram Panchayats in 80 districts across seven states, focusing on groundwater management. The Pradhan Mantri Krishi Sinchai Yojana aims to expand irrigation coverage and improve water use efficiency.
The Ministry of Jal Shakti has set up the Bureau of Water Use Efficiency (BWUE) under the National Water Mission to act as a facilitator for promotion of improving water use efficiency across various sectors.
Mission Amrit Sarovar (2022) aims to create or rejuvenate 75 Amrit Sarovars in every district for water harvesting and conservation. The Master Plan for Artificial Recharge to Groundwater plans for 1.42 crore rainwater harvesting and recharge structures to harness 185 BCM of rainfall.
Artificial recharge
The CGWB, under Ground Water Management and Regulation Scheme, has also implemented several successful artificial recharge projects in the country for demonstrative purpose.
The National Water Policy (2012) has been formulated by the Department of Water Resources, River Development and Ganga Rejuvenation, which inter-alia advocates rainwater harvesting and conservation of water and also highlights the need for augmenting the availability of water through direct use of rainfall.
Watershed Development Component of PMKSY (WDC-PMKSY) focuses on rainfed and degraded lands, incorporating activities like soil conservation, rainwater harvesting, and livelihoods development.
National Awards
Launched in 2018 by the Department of Water Resources to recognise and encourage exceptional contributions towards water conservation and management, the National Water Awards aim to raise public awareness about the importance of water and motivate the adoption of best practices in water usage.
These schemes and initiatives reflect the Government‘s commitment to sustainable water management and conservation. Together, they play a crucial role in securing water resources for future generations and ensuring a water-rich India.
India’s collaborative efforts and key initiatives have led to significant improvements in groundwater recharge, quality, and management. With a focus on sustainability and innovation, these measures ensure a secure water future for generations to come.
