Mission Amrit Sarovar is a central government water conservation scheme launched by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on 24 April 2022 as part of Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav. The mission aims to build and rejuvenate at least 75 Amrit Sarovars (ponds) in every district of the country.
Each Amrit Sarovar has a pondage area of at least 1 acre (0.4 hectare) with a water holding capacity of about 10,000 cubic meters. In hilly and coastal states, the minimum pondage area is 0.25 acre with a capacity of 2,500 cubic meters.
Amrit Sarovar Scheme 2026
The mission works through the states and districts by bringing together many ongoing schemes such as Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Scheme, 15th Finance Commission Grants, Pradhan Mantri Krishi Sinchayee Yojana (PMKSY) sub-schemes like the Watershed Development Component and Har Khet Ko Pani, besides the states' own schemes. Public support through crowdfunding and Corporate Social Responsibility is also allowed for the work.
Phase I of the mission ended on 15 August 2023 and crossed its target of 50,000 Amrit Sarovars. As per the Ministry of Jal Shakti, over 68,000 Amrit Sarovars have been constructed or rejuvenated across the country as of October 2024. The mission covers 28 states and 5 union territories, except Delhi, Chandigarh and Lakshadweep.
Phase II of Mission Amrit Sarovar is now running with a renewed focus on making sure water stays available, with community participation (Jan Bhagidaari) at its core. It aims to strengthen climate resilience, keep the ecological balance and deliver lasting benefits for future generations.
An impact assessment of Phase I done by IIT-Delhi reported a 16.3% increase in water body surface area and a 42% decrease in dry water bodies across the country. About 23 lakh trees have also been planted at Amrit Sarovar sites.
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Scheme Name | Mission Amrit Sarovar |
| Launched By | Prime Minister Narendra Modi |
| Launch Date | 24 April 2022 |
| Objective | 75 Amrit Sarovars in every district, total 50,000 |
| Minimum Pondage Area | 1 acre (0.25 acre in hilly/coastal states) |
| Water Holding Capacity | About 10,000 cubic meters |
| Coverage | 28 states and 5 union territories |
| Official Website | amritsarovar.gov.in |
Amrit Sarovar Scheme Guidelines PDF
The official guidelines of Mission Amrit Sarovar can be downloaded in PDF format from the official portal. The guidelines explain the objective, site selection, funding sources, executing agencies, monitoring and the role of the community in the mission.
Download the guidelines PDF from Amrit Sarovar Guidelines PDF.
Official Website
All the details about the mission, including state-wise progress and the list of completed Amrit Sarovars, are available on the official portal at amritsarovar.gov.in.
How the Mission Works
The mission depends heavily on people's participation at every stage. The foundation stone of each Amrit Sarovar is laid by a freedom fighter or a family member, a family of a martyr, or a local Padma awardee. If no such citizen is available, the eldest member of the local Gram Panchayat leads the work.
People can also take part by donating construction material, benches and by Shram Daan. On Independence Day and Republic Day, the Tricolour is hoisted at each Amrit Sarovar site. Possible users of the water body, such as farmers, fisherfolk and those growing water chestnut, are identified and their groups are encouraged to keep the sarovar in good condition.
For another central water conservation scheme, see Atal Bhujal Yojana.
FAQ's
Is Mission Amrit Sarovar still running?
Yes. Phase I ended in August 2023 and crossed its target. Phase II of the mission is now running with a focus on water availability and community participation.
Where can I download the Amrit Sarovar guidelines PDF?
The guidelines PDF is available on the official portal at amritsarovar.gov.in.
How many Amrit Sarovars have been built?
Over 68,000 Amrit Sarovars have been constructed or rejuvenated across the country as of October 2024.
