Housing and Urban Affairs Minister Manohar Lal today said that water management is not merely a service delivery mechanism but a movement driven by Jan Bhagidari. The Minister was speaking at the AMRUT Mitra Mahotsav, which celebrated the leadership of women Self-Help Groups (SHGs), AMRUT Mitras, in strengthening urban water services under AMRUT 2.0. Mr Lal said women play a central role in India’s water systems, as they are often the primary managers of water at the household and community levels. He added that the active involvement of women, particularly through SHGs, has led to improved service delivery, greater transparency, and a stronger connection between citizens and urban local bodies. The Minister added, empowering women in urban water management strengthens community ownership and contributes to more sustainable and efficient water governance.’ Mr Lal said treated wastewater reuse will be a major priority under AMRUT 2.0 as cities shift to a circular and sustainable water economy. He also announced the Ministry’s vision to expand the AMRUT Mitra model from the current 1900 cities to five thousand cities, ensuring deeper penetration of women-led governance in urban water and sanitation.