Uttar Pradesh Revives 50 Rivers

• 18 Jul 2025

The Uttar Pradesh government has successfully rejuvenated 50 rivers spanning 3,363 km through a collaborative effort involving state initiatives and local participation.

Key Points 

• About the Project: The initiative was implemented across 1,011 gram panchayats in rural areas. 
  • The efforts were driven by the Namami Gange programme and sustained through the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MNREGA). 
• Impact: 
  • Environmental and Agricultural: The restoration of rivers and construction of 3,388 ponds in rural areas enhanced groundwater levels and water storage capacity,  
    • It will reduce water scarcity and support agriculture and livestock needs for local farmers. 
  • Sustainability and Soil Conservation: The government planted along riverbank sites to prevent erosion and reinforce embankments, and identified new projects for river restoration and watershed development. 
  • Socio-Cultural and Employment Benefits: River revival efforts have restored cultural sites, boosted water conservation awareness, encouraged community participation, and generated rural jobs through MNREGA, aiding local development. 

Namami Gange Programme 

• Launched: It was launched in  2014–15 as a flagship integrated conservation mission by the Government of India. 
• Objective: Twin goals of pollution abatement and rejuvenation of River Ganga and its tributaries. Focus on restoring "Nirmal Dhara" (unpolluted flow) and "Aviral Dhara" (continuous flow). 
• Coverage: The Ganga Basin spans 11 states, covering 27% of India's land area and supporting 47% of the population. 
• Key Components: 
  • Nirmal Ganga: Pollution control via sewage treatment and waste management. 
  • Aviral Ganga: Ecological flow restoration and afforestation. 
  • Jan Ganga: Community awareness and engagement. 
  • Gyan Ganga: Research, policy support, and river basin planning. 
• Recent Initiatives: 
  • New STPs and drain interception in Varanasi and Bhadohi (over ₹400 crore investment). 
  • Development of biodiversity parks in 7 districts and priority wetlands in 3 states including UP. 
  • Launch of a national framework for safe reuse of treated water.

Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MNREGA) 

• It was passed in 2005 and is a rights-based employment guarantee scheme aimed at rural livelihood security. 
• Core Objective: To provide 100 days of guaranteed wage employment in a financial year to every rural household whose adult members are willing to do unskilled manual work. 
• Key Features: 
  • Eligibility: Indian citizen, 18 years or older, part of a rural household, and willing to engage in unskilled manual work. 
  • Decentralized Planning: Planning and implementation are entrusted to Gram Sabhas and Panchayati Raj Institutions, ensuring grassroots participation. 
  • Unemployment Allowance: If work is not provided within 15 days of application, a compensation (¼ wage for first 30 days, ½ thereafter) must be paid. 
  • Worksite Norms: Employment must be within a 5 km radius; basic facilities such as drinking water, shade, and first aid must be ensured. 
  • Time-bound Payments: Wages must be paid weekly and within 15 days, else compensation is applicable.