On July 23, 2026, Minister of State for Housing and Urban Affairs, Tokhan Sahu, conducted a review meeting focused on the groundwater recharge programme under the ‘Catch the Rain’ campaign. This initiative reflects the Government of India’s commitment to water conservation. The meeting was held at Sankalp Bhawan in New Delhi, where the Minister engaged with officials from the AMRUT Mission and representatives from the National Institute of Urban Affairs (NIUA).

Discussion on the Shallow Aquifer Management Programme

During the meeting, Sahu assessed the contributions of the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs to the nationwide ‘Catch the Rain’ campaign, specifically through the Shallow Aquifer Management (SAM) Programme under AMRUT 2.0. The programme aims to support 75 Urban Local Bodies (ULBs) across India in implementing scientifically proven groundwater recharge methods to enhance urban water security and mitigate flooding risks.

Attendees included Isha Kalia, the Joint Secretary of the Ministry, along with Directors of the AMRUT Mission and a Programme Specialist from NIUA. The officials provided updates based on the National Interaction with 75 SAM Cities held on July 20, 2023, highlighting key insights and developments from cities engaged with the programme.

The Minister also reviewed the achievements of SAM 1.0, which was a pilot initiative involving ten AMRUT cities between 2022 and 2024, showcasing successful groundwater management and increased community awareness on sustainability practices. This groundwork is essential for extending the programme under SAM 2.0 to a broader audience.

Progress and Project Implementation Details

In the review, it was reported that SAM 2.0 has successfully mapped 870 sites focusing on significant groundwater attributes. Furthermore, 539 Detailed Project Reports (DPRs) have been prepared, representing a total project value of over ₹28 crore, aimed at establishing groundwater recharge infrastructures across the involved cities.

Sahu acknowledged the advancements made under the programme, emphasising the necessity of merging scientific innovation with traditional wisdom in India’s approach to water conservation. He encouraged officials to promote community-led water conservation methods that have historically contributed to environmental sustainability alongside modern techniques.

During the conversation, Sahu reiterated Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of making water conservation a “Jan Andolan” (people’s movement). He instructed officials to bolster community involvement by engaging local communities, Self-Help Groups (SHGs), Resident Welfare Associations (RWAs), and educational institutions in the implementation of groundwater recharge projects.

Future Directions and Government Commitment

The Minister underscored that public participation is vital for ensuring the sustainable success of the groundwater recharge initiative. He directed officials to implement regular monitoring systems for SAM projects, compile documentation on best-performing cities, and prepare a collection of effective practices and models. Steps should also include speeding up the construction of recharge structures during the ongoing monsoon season.

Reaffirming the Government’s commitment to fostering climate-resilient urban areas, Sahu stated that combining scientific groundwater management, advanced technologies, and engaged community efforts within the SAM Programme is crucial. These elements collectively work towards enhancing urban water security and achieving the goals of the ‘Catch the Rain’ campaign.

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