New Delhi, Mar 25 (BNP): The Centre on Tuesday signed reform-linked memoranda of understanding with Andhra Pradesh and Odisha under Jal Jeevan Mission (JJM) 2.0 to strengthen sustainable and community-driven rural drinking water systems.
The agreements aim to advance structured reforms focused on transparency, accountability, and long-term sustainability of water supply services in rural areas.
Union Jal Shakti Minister C.R. Patil said the next phase of the mission will prioritise bridging infrastructure gaps, ensuring reliable water supply, and strengthening community-led management systems.
He highlighted the need for proper handover of completed schemes to local communities and emphasised women’s participation in water quality monitoring through field test kits.
The MoU with Andhra Pradesh was signed in the presence of Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu, while Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi participated virtually during the signing of the agreement with his state.
Both states reaffirmed their commitment to achieving universal household tap water coverage and improving service delivery through community participation and sustainable operation and maintenance systems.
Officials said the reform framework includes measures to strengthen infrastructure, improve monitoring through digital platforms, and enhance citizen engagement through local committees and grievance redressal systems.
The agreements are part of the Centre’s broader push under JJM 2.0 to ensure adequate and quality drinking water supply to every rural household, aligned with the goal of long-term water security and improved living standards.
The development was announced by the Ministry of Jal Shakti in a statement.
