Source: TH
Subject: Government Schemes
Context: The Union Cabinet has officially approved the extension of the Jal Jeevan Mission (JJM) until 2028, shifting the program’s focus from mere infrastructure creation to sustained service delivery.
About Jal Jeevan Mission (JJM):
What it is?
- The Jal Jeevan Mission is a flagship central government initiative designed to provide safe and adequate drinking water through individual Functional Household Tap Connections (FHTC) to all households in rural India.
Launched in: August 15, 2019.
Nodal Ministry: Ministry of Jal Shakti.
Aim: The primary objective is to ensure Har Ghar Jal (Water in Every Home) by providing 55 liters of water per person per day to every rural household through tap connections by the new deadline of December 2028.
Key Features of the Scheme:
- Service Delivery (JJM 2.0): Shifting focus from building pipes to ensuring a 24×7 utility-based service delivery approach through structural reforms and MoUs with States.
- Sujalam Bharat Digital Framework: Every village will be assigned a unique Sujal Gaon ID, digitally mapping the water supply from source to tap for better transparency and monitoring.
- Water Quality Monitoring: Heavy emphasis on regular testing of water samples using field test kits and a network of certified laboratories.
- Greywater Management: The mission includes the management of greywater (household wastewater) through soak pits and kitchen gardens to ensure sustainability.
- Convergence with Other Schemes: Integration with MGNREGS, SWACHH BHARAT MISSION (G), and 15th Finance Commission grants for water conservation and source strengthening.
Significance:
- Access to potable water significantly reduces the burden of water-borne diseases (like cholera and dysentery), particularly improving child health and nutrition.
- The decentralized approach (Paani Samitis) empowers villagers to manage their own water resources, fostering a sense of ownership.
