Current Context : The central government has introduced the Jal Hi AMRIT scheme.

• It is an Initiative Under AMRUT 2.0 launched to enhance the quality of treated wastewater and encourage its recycling in urban areas.
• Goal: To motivate States and Union Territories to effectively manage sewage treatment plants (STPs) to produce high-quality recycled water.

KEY FEATURES:

• Clean Water Credit System: Encourages competition among cities by awarding Clean Water Credits based on the quality of treated water.
• Star-Rating System: STPs will receive star ratings (from 3 to 5 stars) for their performance, with certificates valid for six months.
• Performance-Based Incentives: STPs will receive rewards based on their star ratings and Clean Water Credits.

ABOUT AMRUT 2.0:

• Ministry Involved: Managed by the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs (MoHUA).
• Duration: Launched in 2021 and will run for five years.

Objectives:

• Ensure every household in statutory towns has access to water supply through functional taps.
• Expand septage management in 500 cities from the first phase of the AMRUT scheme.
• Background: AMRUT 1.0 was introduced in 2015 to provide basic civic amenities like water supply, sewage management, and stormwater drainage in selected cities​