Why this matters now
AMRUT is a flagship urban mission tested for its components, AMRUT 2.0 and its place in India’s urbanisation/urban-governance agenda.
What is AMRUT?
Launched in 2015 (Ministry of Housing & Urban Affairs), the Atal Mission for Rejuvenation and Urban Transformation (AMRUT) focuses on basic infrastructure in selected cities — water supply, sewerage and septage, storm-water drainage, urban transport, and green/open spaces.
AMRUT 2.0
AMRUT 2.0 (from 2021) aims at universal coverage of water supply and sewerage across all statutory towns, with a focus on water security, recycling/reuse, rejuvenation of water bodies, and a circular water economy — moving toward “water-secure” cities.
Significance
AMRUT supports India’s urbanisation and ties into urban governance reforms and the SDGs. Challenges include city-level capacity and finances, implementation pace, and the scale of urban infrastructure deficits. It complements the Smart Cities Mission and Swachh Bharat (Urban).
UPSC angle
Know AMRUT (2015, MoHUA) — water supply, sewerage, drainage, transport, green spaces — and AMRUT 2.0 (universal water/sewerage, recycling, water security). Links to Smart Cities/SBM-Urban.
Frequently asked questions
What is AMRUT?
The Atal Mission for Rejuvenation and Urban Transformation (2015) — providing basic urban infrastructure like water, sewerage and green spaces.
What does AMRUT focus on?
Water supply, sewerage and septage, storm-water drainage, urban transport and green/open spaces.
What is AMRUT 2.0?
The second phase (2021) aiming at universal water supply and sewerage coverage, with a focus on water security and reuse.
Which ministry runs AMRUT?
The Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs.