Guidance note on Engagement of Self Help Groups for O and M of FSTPs and Co-treatment Plants

March 26, 2025

The AMRUT Mitra initiative was launched in March of this year across all states. The Uttar Pradesh government has executed a total of 87 projects, with an expenditure of Rs 794.71 Lakhs and the participation of 804 women. Among these 87 projects, only four pertain to the operation and maintenance of FSTPs, remaining focus on testing of drinking water. Self-Help Groups (SHGs), predominantly made up of women, are engaged in the AMRUT Mitra scheme to enhance their financial and social empowerment by involving them in the everyday operations and upkeep of FSTPs. The involvement of SHGs in the operation and maintenance (O&M) of Faecal Sludge Treatment Plants (FSTPs) is occurring in four cities of Uttar Pradesh: Khurja, Jaunpur, Raebareli, and Sitapur.

The initiative in urban regions of Uttar Pradesh is being led and executed by the State Urban Development Agency (SUDA) in partnership with Urban Local Bodies (ULBs), with technical assistance from CSE. This report outlines the identified gaps and recommendations observed during personal visits to all four cities, obtained through one-on-one interviews with SHG women and group engagements. This guidance document also emphasizes the essential steps for processing the involvement of SHG members. Therefore, for future involvement of women’s SHGs under the AMRUT MITRA initiative, or based on the preferences of the ULBs, the engagement can proceed according to the guidelines established in this document.