Tamil Nadu Launches Thuli Rainwater Harvesting Campaign

Tamil Nadu Chief Minister C. Joseph Vijay launched the statewide ‘Thuli’ rainwater harvesting awareness campaign in Chennai on 21 October 2026. ‘Thuli’ means “drop” in Tamil. The launch included the unveiling of the campaign logo and mascot.

Rainwater Harvesting and Groundwater Recharge

Rainwater harvesting involves collecting and storing rainwater or directing it into the ground for recharge. Rooftop collection systems channel rainfall from roofs towards storage facilities or recharge structures. Percolation pits, trenches and recharge wells allow collected water to enter the ground. The Thuli campaign aims to strengthen rainwater harvesting, restore existing systems and improve groundwater recharge in urban and rural areas. Its coverage includes municipal corporations, municipalities, town panchayats and village panchayats.

Inspection and Community Participation

The campaign provides for inspections of rainwater harvesting facilities in government offices, schools, hospitals, residential buildings and commercial establishments. Inspections are intended to identify damaged structures requiring repair and locations where new systems are needed. The government plans to promote rooftop rainwater collection and suitable recharge structures. Educational institutions, resident associations and community groups are to take part in awareness activities.

Administration and Historical Context

Government Order No. 184, issued by the Municipal Administration and Water Supply Department on 16 October 2026, preceded the campaign launch. The department will coordinate and monitor the initiative, while district administrations will review performance periodically and track groundwater levels. Tamil Nadu’s earlier rainwater harvesting programme began in 2001 under former Chief Minister J. Jayalalithaa. Rainwater harvesting structures became mandatory for buildings in the state in 2003. During the 2026 launch, the Chief Minister inspected system models at the Tamil Nadu Water Supply and Drainage Board headquarters in Chepauk and released an awareness short film at Marina Beach.

Important Facts for Exams

:

• ‘Thuli’ means “drop” in Tamil.
• Government Order No. 184 was issued on 16 October 2026 by the Municipal Administration and Water Supply Department.
• Tamil Nadu began its earlier rainwater harvesting programme in 2001.
• Rainwater harvesting structures became mandatory for buildings in Tamil Nadu in 2003.

Tamil Nadu’s Thuli campaign covers municipal corporations, municipalities, town panchayats and village panchayats. The Municipal Administration and Water Supply Department coordinates and monitors the initiative.