Punjab Seeks Release of ₹161 Crore for Jal Jeevan Mission Implementation

New Delhi, December 10: Punjab Water Supply and Sanitation Minister, Mr. Hardip Singh Mundian, urged Union Jal Shakti Minister, Mr. C.R. Patil, to expedite the release of the pending first installment of ₹161 crore for the Financial Year 2024-25 under the Jal Jeevan Mission (JJM). Highlighting the importance of this funding, Mr. Mundian stressed that it is critical for advancing the implementation of JJM in Punjab. The Union Minister assured him that the amount would be released on priority.

Speaking during a meeting to review the Swachh Bharat Mission (Gramin) scheme, Mr. Mundian emphasized the need for consistent access to potable drinking water in Punjab’s rural areas. He commended the state’s efforts in achieving Open Defecation Free (ODF) status and shared updates on Punjab’s innovative Faecal Sludge Management (FSM) policy, which aims to bolster rural sanitation practices.

Principal Secretary for Water Supply and Sanitation, Mr. Nilkanth S. Avhad, and Mission Director, Mr. Amit Talwar, accompanied Mr. Mundian at the meeting.

Mr. Mundian reiterated the state’s commitment to achieving Model Plus status under SBM (G) for all villages. This goal, he explained, is essential to improving the quality of life for rural residents. He also highlighted that the reconstitution of Gram Panchayats following recent elections has laid the groundwork for substantial progress in sanitation initiatives. Significant advancements are expected over the next three months as the state continues to prioritize public welfare.

The Union Minister commended Punjab’s remarkable performance in various SBM (G) parameters, recognizing the state’s dedication to rural development. He particularly appreciated the formulation of the FSM policy, which addresses the challenges of managing faecal sludge in rural areas.

The Jal Jeevan Mission, aimed at providing safe and adequate drinking water through individual household tap connections, has been instrumental in improving rural water supply. Punjab’s proactive approach underlines its commitment to ensuring equitable access to essential resources for its residents.

The meeting underscored the collaborative efforts of the central and state governments in enhancing rural infrastructure and sanitation. With the assurance of timely release of funds, Punjab is poised to accelerate its efforts toward sustainable water and sanitation solutions, benefitting millions across its rural landscape.

Participating in a meeting to review the Swachh Bharat Mission (Gramin) scheme by the Union Minister, Mr Mundian said that it was imperative to ensure that the residents of the state get a regular supply of potable drinking water. He said that Punjab has made remarkable progress in attaining ODF status in rural areas. The Cabinet Minister further highlighted that the state has formulated Faecal Sludge Management (FSM) policy.

Principal Secretary Water Supply and Sanitation Mr Nilkanth S Avhad and Mission Director Mr Amit Talwar were also present in the meeting.

Mr Mundian said that the state intends to achieve Model Plus status under SBM (G) for all villages in Punjab on priority for the well being of the various sections of society.

Mr Mundian said that Gram Panchayats have been reconstituted in the state following the recent elections adding that substantial advancements will be made in the next three months, highlighting the state’s commitment to make further progress in SBM (G).

Meanwhile, the Union Minister complimented Punjab for its significant achievements in various parameters in SBM (G) in rural areas. He also appreciated the formulation of the Faecal Sludge Management (FSM) policy by the state.