Which of the following states is NOT covered under the Atal Bhujal Yojana?

The correct answer is Jharkhand.

Key Points

• The Atal Bhujal Yojana (ABY) is a central sector scheme launched by the Government of India to address groundwater depletion in critical areas of the country.
• The scheme primarily focuses on improving groundwater management and incentivizing sustainable usage through community participation.
• The states covered under the Atal Bhujal Yojana are Gujarat, Haryana, Karnataka, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Rajasthan, and Uttar Pradesh.
• Jharkhand is not included in the list of states covered under the Atal Bhujal Yojana.
• The scheme is implemented in water-stressed districts of the selected states, emphasizing participatory groundwater management.

Additional Information

• About Atal Bhujal Yojana (ABY):
  • Launched on 25 December 2019, the birth anniversary of former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee.
  • The scheme is funded by the Government of India and the World Bank with a budget of ₹6,000 crores.
  • Aim: To promote sustainable groundwater management and reduce groundwater exploitation.
  • The scheme is aligned with the Jal Jeevan Mission and the goal of 'Har Ghar Jal'.
• Groundwater Crisis in India:
  • India is the largest consumer of groundwater in the world, accounting for about 25% of global usage.
  • Over 70% of India's agricultural and 50% of its drinking water needs are met by groundwater sources.
  • Unsustainable extraction has led to severe depletion in many regions.
• Community Participation in ABY:
  • The scheme encourages local communities to adopt water conservation measures.
  • It promotes the formation of Water User Associations (WUAs) and preparation of water security plans.
• Other Related Initiatives:
  • Jal Shakti Abhiyan: A campaign to improve water conservation and rainwater harvesting.
  • National Water Mission: Focuses on conservation and equitable distribution of water resources.