Jal Jeevan Mission (JJM) is a revolutionary initiative launched by the Indian government in 2019. The mission aims to supply 55 litres of water per person per day to every rural household via Functional Household Tap Connections (FHTC) by 2024. Falling under the Jal Shakti Ministry, JJM advocates for a comprehensive approach to water management, turning it into everyone’s priority.
The Objective of the Jal Jeevan Mission
One of the key objectives of the mission is to ensure functionality of existing water supply systems and water connections, water quality testing, and promoting sustainable farming practices. The mission also encourages conjunctive usage of conserved water, drinking water source augmentation, efficient water supply systems, and grey water treatment for reuse.
Unique Features of the Jal Jeevan Mission
JJM emphasizes an integrated approach in managing demand and supply of water at the local level, with provisions made for local infrastructure development, including rainwater harvesting and groundwater recharge. The mission further encourages household wastewater management for reuse, aligning with other government programs. JJM adopts extensive Information, Education, and Communication as a crucial component of its mission.
Implementation of the Jal Jeevan Mission
Water committees, known as ‘Paani Samitis’ are responsible for planning, implementing, managing, and maintaining village water supply systems. These committees, comprising 10-15 members with at least half being women, team up with Self-Help Groups, Accredited Social and Health Workers, and Anganwadi teachers to prepare a village action plan – approved in a Gram Sabha before implementation.
Funding Pattern of the Jal Jeevan Mission
The funding for this mission is proportionately shared amongst the Centre and the states. The Himalayan and North-Eastern states enjoy a 90:10 funding distribution, while it stands at 50:50 for other states. Union Territories receive complete funding from the Centre.
Performance of the Jal Jeevan Mission
Since its launch, roughly 12.3 crore (62%) rural households now have piped water access, a significant rise from 3.2 crore (16.6%) in 2019. States such as Gujarat, Telangana, Goa, Haryana, and Punjab, along with the Union Territories — Andaman & Nicobar Islands, Daman Diu & Dadra Nagar Haveli and Puducherry report 100% coverage. Himachal Pradesh at 98.87%, and Bihar at 96.30%, are also set to achieve saturation soon.
Jal Jeevan Mission (Urban)
Announced under the Ministry of Housing of Urban Affairs during the 2021-22 Budget, Jal Jeevan Mission (Urban) aims to provide universal water supply to all statutory towns in accordance with the Sustainable Development Goal- 6. It complements the Jal Jeevan Mission (Rural).
Objectives of Jal Jeevan Mission (Urban)
The end goal of Jal Jeevan Mission (Urban) is securing tap and sewer connections, rejuvenation of water bodies, and creating a circular water economy.
World Health Organization (WHO) Highlights on Jal Jeevan Mission
Recently, WHO emphasized the potential impact of JJM by highlighting its significant health and socio-economic benefits. According to its study, JJM has the potential to prevent nearly 4 lakh deaths from diarrhoea along with saving around USD 101 billion and 66.6 million hours spent daily on water collection, predominantly by women. It also highlights the positive effect on gender equality.
Disability Adjusted Life Years (DALYs)
By providing access to clean, piped water, JJM can help evade approximately 14 million DALYs connected with diarrhoea. A DALY is a measure that represents the loss equivalent of one year of full health, accounting for years of life lost due to premature mortality (YLLs) and the years lived with a disability (YLDs).
Case Study: UPSC Civil Services Examination Previous Year Question
An example from a previous year’s UPSC civil service examination asked, “What is water stress? How and why does it differ regionally in India?” This illustrates the relevance and impact of Jal Jeevan Mission’s objectives and its effects.
