New Era for Rural Water Supply: Jal Jeevan Mission 2.0 Launched

The Union and Himachal Pradesh governments signed an MoU for the Jal Jeevan Mission 2.0, set for completion by 2028. The initiative focuses on structural reforms in rural water supply. Himachal's CM emphasized unique challenges due to geography and urged timely financial support from the center for completed projects.

The Union and Himachal Pradesh governments have cemented their commitment to improving rural water supply through the signing of an MoU for the Jal Jeevan Mission 2.0 in New Delhi. The agreement highlights a pathway to modernize water supply until 2028.

The MoU was signed by Secretary Jal Shakti, Abhishek Jain, representing Himachal Pradesh, and Joint Secretary Swati Nayak, on behalf of the Union government. The mission aims for a restructured approach and increased funding to address rural water concerns, prioritizing single village schemes.

Himachal Pradesh's political leaders, including Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu, virtually emphasized the unique geographical challenges that drive up construction costs in hilly areas. Sukhu urged for specialized norms and the release of Rs 1,227 crore in pending dues for completed projects under the scheme.

(With inputs from agencies.)