Lucknow: Uttar Pradesh has emerged as the leading state in India in the field of water conservation under the leadership of Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath. The state has achieved the top position in the construction of Amrit Sarovars, with around 20,000 water bodies developed across the state.
Uttar Pradesh alone accounts for nearly 27 percent of the total Amrit Sarovars constructed across the country, making it the largest contributor to this nationwide water conservation initiative.
Over the last five financial years, more than Rs 16,000 crore has been spent on various water-related projects in the state. These efforts are transforming rural areas by improving water availability, strengthening groundwater levels, supporting agriculture, and promoting environmental sustainability.
Uttar Pradesh Leaves Other States Behind in Amrit Sarovar Construction
Uttar Pradesh has significantly outperformed other states in the development of Amrit Sarovars. Madhya Pradesh stands second in the country, but Uttar Pradesh has created nearly three times more Amrit Sarovars compared to it.
The achievement is not limited to government-led construction activities. It reflects a larger movement focused on the revival of traditional water sources, community participation, and long-term water management at the village level.
Water Conservation Becomes a Mass Movement in Villages
The Yogi Adityanath government has transformed the Amrit Sarovar initiative from a simple construction programme into a people-driven water conservation campaign.
Across villages, efforts are being made to revive old ponds, develop new water reservoirs, promote rainwater harvesting, and protect existing water resources. These initiatives have helped increase water availability in rural regions and provided sustainable solutions to areas facing water challenges.
The active participation of local communities has played an important role in making water conservation a widespread movement across Uttar Pradesh.
Over 100 Water Conservation Works Included Under VB-GRAM-G Scheme
To strengthen water security, Uttar Pradesh has expanded the scope of water conservation activities under employment schemes.
Earlier, under the MGNREGA programme, out of 266 approved works, 78 activities were related to water conservation. Now, under the VB-GRAM-G scheme, a total of 318 permissible works have been identified, including 107 works focused on water security and conservation.
These activities include:
- Construction of check dams
- Development of soak pits
- Rooftop rainwater harvesting structures
- Construction of ponds and water bodies
- Restoration of reservoirs
- Construction of small dams
- Field bunding and soil conservation work
- Plantation activities for environmental protection
These measures are helping strengthen local water resources and improve rural infrastructure.
Amrit Sarovars Provide Major Support to Agriculture and Groundwater Levels
The development of Amrit Sarovars and restoration of ponds have brought significant benefits to the agricultural sector.
Improved water availability has helped farmers access better irrigation facilities, reducing dependence on uncertain rainfall. The initiative has also contributed to groundwater recharge and improved water availability in rural areas.
The growth of greenery around water bodies has supported biodiversity and strengthened environmental conservation efforts across villages.
Water Conservation Boosts Rural Economy and Livelihood Opportunities
The state’s water conservation campaign has also created new opportunities for rural livelihoods.
Amrit Sarovars are supporting activities such as:
- Fisheries development
- Animal husbandry
- Irrigation-based farming
- Other local livelihood activities
Through the VB-GRAM-G initiative, employment opportunities have increased, while improved water availability has contributed to higher agricultural productivity and better income opportunities for farmers.
Uttar Pradesh Emerges as a National Model for Water Conservation
By connecting water conservation with development, environmental protection, and rural economic growth, Uttar Pradesh has created a successful model for sustainable water management.
The construction of Amrit Sarovars, revival of traditional water bodies, and large-scale conservation efforts demonstrate how effective policies, public participation, and proper implementation can help address water challenges.
Under Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath’s leadership, Uttar Pradesh has established itself as a leading example in water conservation and is being viewed as an inspiration for other states across India.
