Jal Jeevan Mission (JJM): Challenges and Future Prospects
The Jal Jeevan Mission (JJM), initiated by the Indian government in 2019, aims to ensure 100% Functional Household Tap Connections (FHTC) by 2024. Although significant progress has been made, with nearly 90% of rural households having access to a tap connection, challenges persist, particularly in terms of functionality and structural issues.
Challenges in Tap Water Access and Use
- Only 39% of rural households use taps as their primary water source, indicating a gap between access and usage.
- Usage disparities exist across regions, with states like Uttar Pradesh and Bihar reporting low usage rates (6% to 30%).
Structural and Functional Challenges
- Reduction in financial assistance and bureaucratic irregularities have been noted.
- Scams and incomplete infrastructure development contribute to slowed progress and uncertainty.
- Local institutions lack financial and technical autonomy, impacting tap water management.
Technical and Bureaucratic Concerns
- The centralised approach to water supply management needs decentralisation for better local control.
- Strengthening grievance redressal mechanisms is crucial, with no current data on grievance resolution.
- Administrative data does not accurately reflect ground realities, often using outdated census information.
Material and Environmental Considerations
- The unpredictability of water flow and availability due to climate change affects supply quality and quantity.
- Infrastructure components like pipes and tanks require regular maintenance to prevent degradation.
Social and Caste Dynamics
- The placement of water tanks and inclusion of diverse caste groups in management roles are crucial for efficiency.
- Degrading traditional water sources impact health and socioeconomic conditions, increasing reliance on JJM.
In conclusion, for the Jal Jeevan Mission to succeed, it must address financial, structural, and technical challenges while considering social dynamics and environmental unpredictability to ensure an efficient and sustainable rural water supply system.