Atal Bhujal Yojana

Atal Bhujal Yojana (Atal Jal) is a Central Sector Scheme to be implemented over a period of 5 years (2020-21 to 2024-25).

Aim: It aims to improve ground water management through community participation in identified priority areas in seven States of Gujarat, Haryana, Karnataka, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Rajasthan and Uttar Pradesh.

Objectives: Institutional strengthening for improving ground water monitoring networks and capacity building of stakeholders at different levels.

• Improved and realistic water budgeting based on an improved database and preparation of community-led Water Security Plans at Panchayat level.
• Implementation of Water Security Plans through convergence of various schemes of the Government of India and State Governments to facilitate judicious and effective utilization of funds for sustainable ground water management.
• Efficient use of available ground water resources with emphasis on demand side measures such as micro-irrigation, crop diversification, electricity feeder separation etc.

Scope: Implementation of the scheme is expected to benefit nearly 8350 Gram Panchayats in 78 districts in these States. It will promote panchayat led ground water management and behavioural change with primary focus on demand side management.