Jal Jeevan Mission (JJM) is an ambitious scheme being implemented by the Ministry of Jal Shakti, Government of India. The primary objective of this scheme is to provide every rural household in India with a regular supply of pure, safe, and adequate drinking water through tap connections. The mission was launched on 15th August 2019, with the slogan "Har Ghar Jal" (Water to Every Household). The aim of the mission is to ensure that every rural home receives water through household tap connections on a regular basis.
Under Jal Jeevan Mission, along with the implementation of water supply schemes, water quality is considered a very important component. It is not enough for people in rural areas to get regular water supply—it must also be safe, clean, and healthy. Therefore, special emphasis is placed on water quality monitoring and surveillance under the mission. While selecting water sources for each scheme, it is ensured that the water meets the prescribed quality standards.
At the village level, Field Test Kits (FTKs) are provided to enable Gram Panchayats, VWSC members, and especially women, to carry out water quality testing independently after receiving proper training. At the state and district levels, Water Testing Laboratories are operational where detailed chemical and bacteriological testing of water samples is carried out. Through IEC (Information, Education, and Communication) activities under JJM, communities are made aware of the safe use of drinking water. Water quality is not only a health concern but also an indicator of the sustainability of the scheme. Hence, Jal Jeevan Mission emphasizes the goal "Har Ghar Jal – Surakshit Jal" (Water to Every Home – Safe Water), without compromising on quality.
Under JJM, Operation and Maintenance (O&M) is considered a critical aspect to ensure the long-term successful implementation and sustainability of rural water supply schemes. Merely completing the scheme and handing it over to the Gram Panchayat is not enough so, there is a need for trained local manpower to keep the scheme running efficiently. Therefore, the mission gives special focus to Skilling and Training components.
Through these skilling initiatives, water supply systems can be operated and maintained effectively at the local level, reducing dependence on external agencies. The trained personnel will be certified as “Nal Jal Mitras”, and their availability will facilitate timely maintenance and repair of the systems. This will help ensure the long-term sustainability of the schemes, reduce maintenance costs, and promote greater community involvement in managing their own water supply.
