Mission Amrit Sarovar

Mission Amrit Sarovar, initiated in April 2022, aims to combat water scarcity in India. The mission’s ambitious target was to construct or rejuvenate 50,000 ponds, known as Amrit Sarovars, across the nation. As of January 2025, the mission has successfully exceeded this goal, achieving over 68,000 completed projects. This initiative is part of India’s broader efforts to ensure sustainable water management and enhance the well-being of local communities.

Objectives of Mission Amrit Sarovar

The primary objective is to construct at least 75 Amrit Sarovars in each district. This goal addresses immediate water needs while promoting long-term sustainability. The mission aims to improve both surface and groundwater availability, thereby enhancing climate resilience in rural areas.

Implementation Strategy

Mission Amrit Sarovar operates through a collaborative framework involving various government departments and ministries. Key players include the Department of Rural Development, Ministry of Water Resources, and Ministry of Forest, Environment and Climate Change. The initiative also integrates geospatial technology for effective planning and execution.

Community Participation

The mission emphasises community involvement, known as Jan Bhagidaari. Local participation is crucial for the success of the initiative. It encourages citizens to contribute through crowdfunding and Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiatives. This approach encourages a sense of ownership among communities regarding their water resources.

Financial Mechanisms

To achieve its objectives, Mission Amrit Sarovar leverages existing financial schemes. These include the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Scheme (MGNREGS) and grants from the 15th Finance Commission. States are also encouraged to utilise their own resources and initiatives to support the mission.

Progress and Achievements

As of early 2025, over 81,000 Amrit Sarovars have been identified, with construction or rejuvenation completed on more than 66,000. This remarkable progress showcases the effectiveness of the mission in addressing water scarcity. States like West Bengal, Punjab, and Tamil Nadu have made contributions, although some regions still face challenges in meeting the target.

Future Directions

Phase II of Mission Amrit Sarovar will focus on enhancing water availability through continued community engagement. The aim is to build on the achievements of the first phase and ensure lasting benefits for future generations. The mission is designed to adapt and respond to ongoing challenges in water management.

Role of Technology

Geospatial data and technology play important role in identifying suitable locations for the construction of Amrit Sarovars. The Bhaskaracharya National Institute for Space Applications and Geo-informatics (BISAG-N) serves as a technical partner, providing essential support in data analysis and project execution.

Questions for UPSC:

1. Critically analyse the impact of Mission Amrit Sarovar on rural water management in India.
2. Explain the significance of community involvement in the success of water conservation initiatives.
3. What are the challenges faced by states in achieving the targets of Mission Amrit Sarovar? Discuss.
4. With suitable examples, comment on the role of technology in enhancing water resource management in India.

Answer Hints:

1. Critically analyse the impact of Mission Amrit Sarovar on rural water management in India.

1. Mission Amrit Sarovar has constructed or rejuvenated over 68,000 ponds, improving surface and groundwater availability.
2. It addresses immediate water needs in rural areas, promoting sustainable water sources for communities.
3. The initiative enhances climate resilience and ecological balance, contributing to long-term environmental sustainability.
4. The mission encourages community participation, empowering locals to take ownership of water resources.
5. Overall, it represents a comprehensive approach to water management, integrating multiple government schemes and community efforts.

2. Explain the significance of community involvement in the success of water conservation initiatives.

1. Community involvement encourages a sense of ownership, encouraging locals to actively participate in conservation efforts.
2. Engagement through Jan Bhagidaari enhances accountability and sustainability of water resources.
3. Local contributions, including crowdfunding and CSR, provide additional financial support for initiatives.
4. Community participation leads to tailored solutions that address specific regional water challenges.
5. It strengthens social cohesion, as communities work together towards a common goal of water security.

3. What are the challenges faced by states in achieving the targets of Mission Amrit Sarovar? Discuss.

1. Resource gaps exist, with some states struggling to mobilize necessary funding and support for projects.
2. Geographical and climatic variations can affect the feasibility and success of pond construction.
3. Administrative challenges, such as coordination among multiple government departments, may hinder progress.
4. Community engagement can be inconsistent, with varying levels of participation across different regions.
5. Some states face bureaucratic delays in project approvals and implementation, impacting timely execution.

4. With suitable examples, comment on the role of technology in enhancing water resource management in India.

1. Geospatial technology is utilized to identify optimal locations for constructing Amrit Sarovars, ensuring effective use of resources.
2. The Bhaskaracharya National Institute for Space Applications and Geo-informatics (BISAG-N) supports data analysis and project planning.
3. Remote sensing helps monitor water bodies’ health and assess the impact of conservation efforts.
4. Smart water management systems can provide real-time data for better decision-making in water distribution.
5. Technological integration in project execution enhances transparency and efficiency, leading to better outcomes in water management.