Introduction
Water scarcity and mismanagement have emerged as critical challenges for India. Recognizing the urgency, the Government of India has launched several initiatives, among which Jal Suraksha Abhiyan stands out as a focused campaign to conserve, manage, and ensure the sustainable use of water resources.
Key Highlights of Jal Suraksha Abhiyan
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Launch Year | 2019 |
| Launched By | Ministry of Jal Shakti, Government of India |
| Objective | Water conservation, management, and ensuring water security |
| Target Areas | Water-stressed districts and blocks across India |
| Major Components | Rainwater harvesting, watershed development, renovation of water bodies, afforestation |
| Community Participation | Emphasis on people’s movement and stakeholder involvement |
| Associated Schemes | Jal Shakti Abhiyan, Jal Jeevan Mission, Atal Bhujal Yojana |
| Recent Theme | “Jal Sanchay Jan Bhagidari” (Water Conservation, Public Participation) |
| Recent Initiatives | Catch the Rain Campaign, Mukhyamantri Jal Sanchay Yojana, Water Resources Atlas |
Objectives
Promote water conservation and sustainable management practices
Strengthen water resource management in water-stressed regions
Encourage community participation and make water conservation a people’s movement
Revive traditional water conservation methods and adopt modern technologies
Ensure rainwater harvesting and groundwater recharge
Major Features
Comprehensive Approach: Focuses on rainwater harvesting, watershed development, renovation of traditional water bodies, and afforestation.
Community Involvement: Encourages active participation from local communities, NGOs, and stakeholders.
Technology Integration: Utilizes modern techniques alongside traditional practices for effective water management.
Inter-Ministerial Collaboration: Involves various ministries and state governments for coordinated action.
Annual Revamp: The campaign is updated and relaunched every year, especially on World Water Day.
Implementation Strategy
| Step | Description |
|---|---|
| Identification of Target Areas | Focus on water-stressed districts and blocks for intervention |
| Awareness Campaigns | Conduct mass awareness drives and educational programs on water conservation |
| Capacity Building | Train stakeholders including government officials, NGOs, and local communities |
| Infrastructure Development | Construct and renovate rainwater harvesting structures, check dams, and recharge wells |
| Monitoring & Evaluation | Regular monitoring of progress and impact assessment through data collection and field surveys |
| Recognition & Awards | Reward outstanding contributions in water conservation at district and state levels |
Recent Developments
Jal Shakti Abhiyan: Catch the Rain (2025): Launched on World Water Day with the theme “Jal Sanchay Jan Bhagidari,” focusing on maximizing rainwater collection and community participation.
Integration with Other Schemes: Works in tandem with Jal Jeevan Mission and Atal Bhujal Yojana for holistic water management.
Technological Advancements: Introduction of Water Resources Atlas and digital monitoring tools for better resource management.
Importance for Competitive Exams
Frequently asked in General Studies, Current Affairs, and Essay sections.
Relevant for Prelims and Mains, especially in topics related to Environment, Geography, and Governance.
Demonstrates the government’s approach to sustainable development and resource management.
Comparison with Other Major Water Initiatives
| Scheme/Abhiyan | Year of Launch | Focus Area | Implementing Agency |
|---|---|---|---|
| Jal Suraksha Abhiyan | 2019 | Water conservation & management | Ministry of Jal Shakti |
| Jal Shakti Abhiyan | 2019 | Water-stressed districts | Ministry of Jal Shakti |
| Jal Jeevan Mission | 2019 | Tap water to rural households | Ministry of Jal Shakti |
| Atal Bhujal Yojana | 2019 | Groundwater management | Ministry of Jal Shakti |
| Jal Kranti Abhiyan | 2015-16 | Water awareness & conservation | Ministry of Water Resources |
