New Delhi, May 6 (KNS): In a significant push towards universal rural water coverage, the Centre today signed reform-linked Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) with Mizoram and Ladakh under Jal Jeevan Mission (JJM) 2.0, mandating a Gram Panchayat-led, community-owned model for drinking water service delivery.
The MoUs were exchanged in the virtual presence of Union Jal Shakti Minister Shri C. R. Patil, who asserted that the agreements mark a "pivotal step" towards achieving 'Har Ghar Jal' for all rural households by 2028.
Under the new framework, both regions commit to structural reforms ensuring regular supply of adequate and quality water, with operation and maintenance led by Village Water & Sanitation Committees (VWSCs) and Gram Panchayats. The move aligns with the national vision of 'Viksit Bharat @2047'.
Mizoram
In Mizoram, the MoU was signed in the presence of Chief Minister Shri Lalduhoma, who termed the agreement a "potential game changer" for the State. He informed that 1,33,060 rural households (99 per cent physical progress) have been provided with Functional Household Tap Connections (FHTCs), and all rural schools and Anganwadi centres stand covered.
The Chief Minister noted that 28 water testing laboratories, including NABL-accredited ones, have been set up. He, however, urged the Centre for timely financial support to sustain momentum.
Ladakh
For Ladakh, the MoU was formalised in the presence of Lieutenant Governor Shri Vinai Kumar Saxena, who termed the occasion "historic." He highlighted that 98.18 per cent FHTC coverage has been achieved despite the challenging terrain, with community-led verification ensuring accountability.
Patil congratulated the LG for the UT's performance and urged rapid execution as per JJM 2.0 guidelines to reach 100 per cent 'Har Ghar Jal' certified status. He also requested the Lieutenant Governor to coordinate with the Ministry of Home Affairs on Operation & Maintenance (O&M) issues flagged in September 2025.
The MoU was signed between Smt. Swati Meena Naik and Shri Shurbir Singh, IAS, Commissioner/Secretary, PHE/I&FC Department, Ladakh.
Centre's assurance
Addressing the gathering, Union Minister Shri Patil commended Mizoram's near-total physical progress and Ladakh's high coverage, while urging both to prioritise 'Jal Sanchay Jan Bhagidari' through convergence with MGNREGS and timely District Water and Sanitation Mission (DWSM) meetings.
Ashok K. K. Meena, Secretary, DDWS, in his opening remarks, stressed that the MoU is not merely about pipelines but about "sustainable services managed at the grassroots level," empowering Gram Panchayats and VWSCs as custodians of local water assets. MoS Jal Shakti Shri V. Somanna and senior officials from DDWS and National JJM were also present. (KNS)