The Jal Jeevan Mission has rapidly expanded tap water infrastructure in rural
India, achieving near-universal coverage of household connections. However,
recent assessments show that actual water supply, reliability, and quality lag
behind coverage figures, with many households not receiving regular or safe
water. Issues such as groundwater depletion, weak operation and
maintenance, and water contamination remain key challenges. The focus now
needs to shift from infrastructure creation to ensuring sustainable, reliable, and
community-managed rural drinking water services.
The SUJALAM BHARAT initiative seeks water security through integrated water and wastewater management. By converging major missions, it promotes community-led, circular water practices. Its success depends on fixing infrastructure gaps, improving maintenance, strengthening local governance and ensuring effective inter-departmental coordination.
Click to View MoreThe Jal Jeevan Mission provides rural households with safe tap water, focusing on source sustainability, quality, and community management. While progressing, it faces challenges including O&M, water quality, and ensuring the long-term functionality of connections.
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