India, Aug. 27 -- The Government of India has issued a release:
In a significant initiative, the Department of Drinking Water and Sanitation (DDWS), Ministry of Jal Shakti, in collaboration with the Ministry of Rural Development, has called for the convergence of works of Jal Jeevan Mission (JJM) 2.0 and Swachh Bharat Mission (Grameen) SBM-(G) 2.0 under the Viksit Bharat - Guarantee for Rozgar and Ajeevika Mission (Gramin) (VB-G RAM G) Act, 2025. This convergence is an initiative towards strengthening rural development, integrated planning for rural water security and resilience.
The VB-G RAM G Act, 2025 identifies water security as one of its four thematic focus areas, recognising its importance for sustainable livelihoods, agricultural productivity, climate resilience and long-term rural development. The Jal Jeevan Mission (JJM) 2.0, approved on 10 March 2026, places drinking water source sustainability, groundwater recharge and greywater management at the core of its strategy to ensure reliable and resilient rural drinking water services. Similarly, SBM(G) 2.0 focuses on scientific management of solid and liquid waste to improve environmental sanitation and public health. The complementary objectives of these programmes provide an opportunity for integrated planning and implementation through Viksit Gram Panchayat Plans (VGPPs).
Under the convergence plan, the States and UTs have been requested to
This close coordination among the Departments of Drinking Water & Sanitation, Rural Development, Panchayati Raj and other concerned departments at the State, district and Gram Panchayat levels is critical for successful implementation. Also, such convergence strengthens the sustainability of rural drinking water services while promoting ecological sustainability, climate resilience and quality of life in rural communities, contributing to the vision of Viksit Bharat @2047.
Disclaimer: Curated by HT Syndication.
