JalJeevanSamvad-November-2021-en

Jal Jeevan Samvad – November 2021 (Issue XIV) presents the progress and implementation of the Jal Jeevan Mission, with a focus on achieving Har Ghar Jal through functional household tap connections, community participation, water-quality assurance, sustainable water management and technology-enabled monitoring. The issue documents the progress of Functional Household Tap Connections (FHTCs) and coverage of schools and Anganwadi Centres, along with progress in Aspirational and JE-AES affected districts. The publication provides comparative coverage information as of 30 November 2021. A major theme of the issue is the role of community participation and mobilisation in making JJM a people's movement. It highlights Village Water & Sanitation Committees (VWSCs), Pani Samitis, Village Action Plans, Gram Sabhas, Self Help Groups and community-based organisations in planning, implementation and operation and maintenance of village water-supply systems. The issue also gives significant attention to water quality monitoring and surveillance, including the Water Quality Management Information System (WQMIS), Field Testing Kits (FTKs), sanitary surveillance and community-based water-quality testing. It highlights the importance of ensuring prescribed-quality drinking water and timely remedial action when contamination is detected. Another important theme is climate change and water security. The publication discusses the relationship between climate change, water availability, public health and drinking-water resilience. It highlights source sustainability, groundwater recharge and climate-resilient approaches to rural water supply. The issue also records India's participation in COP26 and the first BRICS Water Ministers' Meeting, where JJM's approaches and best practices were presented on international platforms. The publication showcases the use of technology and innovation, including sensor-based monitoring, geo-tagging, water-quality testing systems and digital information platforms. It also documents field experiences from difficult and remote areas such as Ladakh and Jammu & Kashmir, where challenging terrain and extreme weather conditions require innovative approaches to water-supply infrastructure. The issue further highlights capacity building and skill development, including training of village-level personnel, women water-quality testers, masons, plumbers, electricians and other personnel required for effective operation and maintenance of rural water-supply schemes. It also records JJM field visits and action on the ground, documenting implementation experiences, challenges, good practices and interactions with State officials, Gram Panchayats, VWSCs and local communities.