Introduction
The Namami Gange Programme, launched in June 2014, is a flagship initiative by the Government of India aimed at cleaning and rejuvenating the Ganga River. With an initial budget of ₹20,000 crore, later expanded to ₹42,500 crore, the programme has played a crucial role in pollution abatement, ecological restoration, and sustainable water management. The initiative, led by the Ministry of Jal Shakti under the National Mission for Clean Ganga (NMCG), has significantly improved sewage treatment capacity, biodiversity conservation, and riverfront development.
Objectives of Namami Gange
Pollution Abatement: Reduce industrial and domestic wastewater discharge into the Ganga.
Ecological Restoration: Revive aquatic ecosystems and protect biodiversity.
Sewage Treatment Management: Establish modern sewage treatment plants (STPs) to prevent contamination.
Public Awareness: Encourage community participation for sustainable conservation efforts.
Riverfront Development: Modernize ghats and crematoriums for better sanitation and tourism.
Key Features of the Namami Gange Programme
1. Sewage Treatment Infrastructure
Over 200 STPs have been developed to prevent untreated sewage from entering the Ganga.
The programme has quadrupled sewage treatment capacity in major cities like Varanasi.
2. Riverfront Development
Beautification and modernization of ghats and crematoriums to improve sanitation.
Development of eco-friendly tourism infrastructure along the Ganga.
3. Biodiversity Conservation
Conservation programs have led to an increase in the Gangetic Dolphin population.
Aquatic species diversity has improved due to reduced pollution levels.
4. Afforestation and Eco-Restoration
Over 1.34 lakh hectares of trees have been planted along the riverbanks.
Afforestation efforts help prevent soil erosion and maintain natural water flow.
5. Ganga Gram Initiative
Over 1,674 villages along the Ganga have been developed with better sanitation, waste management, and clean drinking water facilities.
Promotion of organic farming and sustainable irrigation practices.
6. International Recognition & Collaborations
Recognized as one of the Top 10 World Restoration Flagship Initiatives under the UN Decade on Ecosystem Restoration (2022).
Partnerships with global institutions for research and technology-driven solutions.
Impact of Namami Gange Programme
Improved Water Quality: Significant reduction in pollution levels across multiple states.
Revival of Aquatic Life: Increase in fish diversity and other aquatic species.
Enhanced Tourism: Development of riverfronts has boosted local economies.
Public Engagement: Strengthened participation from communities, NGOs, and private entities.
MCQs for UPSC CSE
When was the Namami Gange Programme launched? a) 2010
b) 2014
c) 2016
d) 2019
Answer: b) 2014Which ministry implements the Namami Gange Programme? a) Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change
b) Ministry of Jal Shakti
c) Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs
d) Ministry of Agriculture
Answer: b) Ministry of Jal ShaktiWhat is a major focus area of the Namami Gange Programme? a) Infrastructure development in urban areas
b) Biodiversity conservation and pollution control
c) Industrial expansion along the Ganga River
d) Mining and mineral extraction
Answer: b) Biodiversity conservation and pollution controlWhich global recognition has Namami Gange received? a) World Bank’s Best Water Management Programme
b) UN’s Top 10 World Restoration Flagship Initiatives
c) UNESCO Heritage Conservation Award
d) Global Clean Water Initiative Award
Answer: b) UN’s Top 10 World Restoration Flagship Initiatives
UPSC Mains Question
Q. Discuss the objectives and key features of the Namami Gange Programme. Evaluate its impact on river rejuvenation, biodiversity, and sustainable development.
Conclusion
The Namami Gange Programme is a significant step toward river conservation, ecological sustainability, and pollution control. Its comprehensive approach, backed by strong government funding and international recognition, has led to visible improvements in water quality, biodiversity, and local livelihoods. Continued efforts in sewage management, afforestation, and public participation will ensure long-term success in preserving the Ganga River for future generations.
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