Shri Tokhan Sahu Reviews AMRUT 2.0 SAM Program, Calls for Community Participation in Catch the Rain
UPSC / SSC current affairs note · Schemes
Why in news
Union Minister of State for Housing and Urban Affairs Shri Tokhan Sahu reviewed the Shallow Aquifer Management (SAM) program under AMRUT 2.0, emphasizing community participation in the 'Catch the Rain' campaign. The review highlighted mapping of 870 sites and preparation of 539 DPRs worth over ₹28 crore for groundwater recharge structures.
Background
AMRUT (Atal Mission for Rejuvenation and Urban Transformation) 2.0 was launched to provide universal water supply and sewerage services in urban areas. The SAM program, under AMRUT 2.0, focuses on scientific groundwater recharge interventions in 75 Urban Local Bodies (ULBs) to enhance urban water security and reduce flood risks. SAM 1.0 was a pilot in 10 AMRUT cities from 2022 to 2024.
Key facts
Shri Tokhan Sahu, MoS for Housing and Urban Affairs, reviewed the SAM program under AMRUT 2.0 on 23 July 2026.
SAM program supports 75 ULBs across India in planning and implementing scientific groundwater recharge interventions.
Under SAM 2.0, 870 sites have been mapped for key groundwater properties.
539 Detailed Project Reports (DPRs) have been prepared, with total estimated cost exceeding ₹28 crore.
SAM 1.0 pilot (2022-2024) in 10 AMRUT cities demonstrated effectiveness in improving groundwater levels and institutional capacity.
Minister called for combining scientific innovation with traditional knowledge and documenting indigenous water conservation practices.
Emphasis on strengthening community participation involving SHGs, RWAs, educational institutions, and grassroots organizations.
Instructions given for regular monitoring, documentation of best practices, and accelerating construction during monsoon season.
The program aims to build climate-resilient cities and advance 'Catch the Rain' campaign objectives.
Prelims pointers
- AMRUT 2.0: Atal Mission for Rejuvenation and Urban Transformation
- SAM: Shallow Aquifer Management program
- Catch the Rain campaign
- NIUA: National Institute of Urban Affairs
- ULB: Urban Local Body
- DPR: Detailed Project Report
- SHG: Self-Help Group
- RWA: Resident Welfare Association
- Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs
Mains angles
- GS2: Government policies and interventions for urban water management and community participation.
- GS3: Water conservation, groundwater recharge, and climate-resilient urban infrastructure.
- GS3: Role of technology and traditional knowledge in sustainable water management.