Amrit Sarovar is an initiative launched by the Government of India to promote water conservation and sustainable development.
Under this scheme, large water bodies (sarovars, ponds, or reservoirs) are constructed or rejuvenated to address water scarcity, enhance livelihoods, and contribute to ecological balance.
Key Features of Amrit Sarovar
· Purpose:
- Water conservation, addressing scarcity, supporting agriculture, and enhancing biodiversity.
· Area:
- Minimum 1 hectare (0.4 hectares in specific regions like Kamrup Metro and Dima Hasao).
· Implementation:
- Executed with departments like Panchayat & Rural Development, Fisheries, and CMSGUY, involving excavation, fencing, solar lighting, and plantation.
· Capacity:
- Designed to increase water storage and manage shortages.
· Maintenance & Revenue:
- Managed by SHGs under ASRLM, earning from fish farming and fruit plantations, with profit-sharing in Sixth Schedule areas.
· Cost:
- ₹13 lakh per unit, funded by MGNREGA and the 15th Finance Commission.
· SDG Alignment:
- Supports goals like Clean Water, Life on Land, and Zero Hunger.
Achievements of Mission Amrit Sarovar
- Exceeding Targets:
- Constructed 2,962 sarovars (target: 2,625), covering 2,747.25 hectares and adding 38.27 million cubic meters of water storage.
- Fish Production:
- Boosted fish production to 443,568.69 tonnes, reducing imports to 26,863.31 tonnes.
- Livelihoods:
- Empowered women’s SHGs for maintenance; generated revenue from fish farming and fruit plantations.
- Environmental Impact:
- Improved groundwater recharge, biodiversity, and climate resilience.
- Tourism Potential:
- Promoted eco-tourism and strengthened rural economy.
