Jal Shakti Ministry will involve MPs

Ravi S Singh
Tribune News Service
New Delhi, April 6

The Union Jal Shakti Ministry will involve MPs cutting across party lines with regard to implementation of Centre Jal Jeevan Mission JJM) and has issued advisory to the states and UTs in this regard.

"The advisory is for considering suggestions from MPs as well as encouraging them to discuss issues relating to Coordination and Monitoring Committee implementation of JJM in District Development ( DISHA ) meeting for time-bound completion of the works," a Jal Shakti Ministry functionary said.

JJM is under implementation in partnership with states since August 2019 with an aim to provide tap water connection to every rural household in the country by 2024.

The Mission is working with various stakeholders to make it truly a people’s movement.

"Apart from the States/UTs, JJM is partnering with various agencies, organizations to make this mission a ‘Jan Andolan’ – people’s movement."

The Ministry is credited with the view that critical appraisal of JIM's implementation. Especially at the DISA platform would keep the local officials on their toes. Also, it would give a boost to peoples' participation in its implementation, as well as increase awareness towards the importance of water and its management.

In the recently concluded Budget Session of the Parliament, issues related to Jal Shakti Ministry especially JJM also got the attention of MPs.

During the recess during the session, Parliamentary Standing Committee also scrutinized the performance of Jal Jeevan Mission.

In its report tabled in the Parliament, the Standing Committee appreciated the effort being made under the mission and also gave a number of recommendations.

The budget for Jal Jeevan Mission in 2021-22 has been increased to Rs. 50,011 Crore from 11,000 Crore in 2020-21.

In addition, funds for water supply are also coming from the 15th Finance Commission tied grants to RLB/ PRIs for water & sanitation, matching State share and externally aided projects.

Thus, in 2021-22, more than Rs 1 lakh crore is planned to invest in the country on ensuring tap water supply to rural homes.