As of January 22, more than 39.6 lakh artificial groundwater recharge and storage projects have been finished under the Jal Sanchay Jan Bhagidari initiative. This initiative, launched in September 2024, aims to enhance groundwater recharge through methods like rainwater harvesting and aquifer recharge. The ‘Master Plan for Artificial Recharge to Groundwater’ focuses on terrain-specific recharge techniques to channel 185 BCM groundwater recharge.
Groundwater plays a crucial role in India’s water security, supporting agriculture, drinking water supply, and ecosystems. To address challenges like overextraction and climate variability, India has adopted a comprehensive approach led by the Ministry of Jal Shakti. This includes the construction of rainwater harvesting structures and community participation. The Atal Bhujal Yojana targets sustainable groundwater management in water-stressed areas of seven states, bringing over 6.68 lakh hectares under efficient use.
The Atal Bhujal Yojana, launched in December 2019, supports water source sustainability for the Jal Jeevan Mission. With a total outlay of Rs 6,000 crore over five years, the scheme emphasizes institutional strengthening and incentive-based outcomes. Additionally, Mission Amrit Sarovar, launched in April 2022, focuses on creating ponds across all districts in India, with over 68,000 ponds completed under the scheme. Various initiatives like the Model Bill on Groundwater and Jal Shakti Abhiyan collectively reinforce groundwater recharge, monitoring, and regulation.
