AMRUT Scheme Full Form, Objectives, Key Features, AMRUT 2.0

AMRUT scheme, or the Atal Mission for Rejuvenation and Urban Transformation is a significant initiative by the Government of India aimed at improving urban infrastructure. Launched in 2015, it focuses on providing essential services such as water supply, sanitation, and green spaces in cities. 

AMRUT aims to create sustainable urban environments by ensuring universal access to basic amenities, making cities more liveable and resilient. The scheme has now evolved into AMRUT 2.0 to expand coverage and introduce advanced urban development strategies. Read on to learn more about it!

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What is AMRUT Scheme and its Full Form?

AMRUT scheme full form is Atal Mission for Rejuvenation and Urban Transformation. This scheme was introduced by the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs (MoHUA) on June 25, 2015. AMRUT mission prioritized access to clean drinking water, efficient sewage systems, and well-planned urban spaces.

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AMRUT Scheme Objectives

The primary objective of AMRUT was to enhance the quality of life in urban areas by providing basic services. The key objectives include:

• Universal Water Supply: Ensuring every urban household has access to a tap with a guaranteed water supply.

• Sewage and Septage Management: Developing efficient sewerage and waste treatment facilities to improve sanitation.

• Stormwater Drainage: Reducing urban flooding through well-planned drainage systems.

• Green Spaces: Increasing the number of parks, gardens, and open spaces to promote sustainable urban living.

• Pollution Reduction: Reduce pollution by promoting public transport and constructing facilities for non-motorized transport.

• Institutional Reforms: Encourage urban reforms to improve financial health, service delivery, transparency, and cost efficiency in urban local bodies (ULBs).

Also Check, Production Linked Incentive Scheme (PLI Scheme)

AMRUT Scheme Key Features 

AMRUT introduced several innovative features to improve urban infrastructure development:

• City-Wise Planning: Each city prepares a Service Level Improvement Plan (SLIP) to determine its specific infrastructure needs.

• Decentralized Implementation: State governments and urban local bodies (ULBs) are responsible for project planning and execution.

• Capacity Building: Training programs for urban local body officials to improve governance and technical expertise.

• Performance-Based Funding: States receive funding based on their progress in implementing reforms and projects.

• Integration with Smart Cities Mission: AMRUT works in synergy with the Smart Cities Mission to create modern and efficient urban spaces.

• PPP Model: Encourages public-private partnerships (PPP) to attract investment and improve service delivery.

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AMRUT 2.0 Scheme

AMRUT 2.0, launched on October 1, 2021, extends the mission for five more years (2021-2026) with a greater focus on sustainability and climate resilience. This phase aims to make urban India self-reliant in water management and promote green urban development. Key highlights of AMRUT 2.0 are:

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Achievements Under AMRUT 2.0

Since its launch, AMRUT 2.0 has made substantial progress in transforming urban infrastructure. Some key achievements include:

• Project Approvals: A total of 8,998 projects amounting to approximately ₹1,89,458.55 crore have been approved by the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs (MoHUA) as of November 2024.

• Water Supply Connections: Around 1.1 crore household water tap connections have been provided, benefiting more than 4 crore people.

• Sewer Connections: Approximately 85 lakh sewer connections have been established, improving sanitation and sewage systems in urban areas.

• Completion of Works: The total expenditure reported is approximately ₹17,089 crore (including the State's share), with ₹23,016.30 crore worth of work completed.

• Green Spaces Development: Over 2,411 parks have been developed under AMRUT 2.0 as part of the initiative to create green spaces in urban areas.

• Women Empowerment: Over 350 Women SHGs have been engaged in water sector activities through AMRUT Mitra.

• Youth Participation: Increased participation of students and faculty in research and studies on water bodies under the Youth Connect Programme.

In conclusion, the AMRUT Scheme has played a crucial role in urban transformation by improving basic infrastructure in Indian cities. With revamped AMRUT 2.0, the mission is set to achieve its aim by integrating technology, innovation, and governance reforms.

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