Context:
In Union Budget 2025-26, Smt. Nirmala Sitharaman, Union Finance Minister outlined these enhancements while launching the Implementation of Jal Jeevan Mission providing universal accessible rural drinking water
Jal Jeevan Mission
- Escalating budget outlay
- Budget Outlay for Jal Jeevan Mission has surged up to Rs.67,000 Crore.
- The mission timeline has been extended till 2028 to complete the objectives of the mission fully.
Impact Till Date
- The mission has ensured access to tap water connections for 15 crore households covering approximately 80% of India’s rural population since its launch in 2019.
100% Coverage Target
- The mission looks to deliver 100% coverage over rural households with potable water connections over the next three years.
Infrastructure and Sustainability Focus
- The mission will now focus on:
- Improving the quality of infrastructure.
- Strenghthening O&M of rural piped water supply systems.
- Ensuring sustainability and citizen-centric water service delivery through “Jan Bhagidhari” (community participation).
MoUs with States/UTs
In MoUs with states and Union Territories (UTs) separately, the sustainability of the project will be ensured. The scheme will be followed in a more community-oriented approach.
Conclusion
The Union Budget 2025-26 also aims to strengthen the Jal Jeevan Mission with more funding and extension of the mission till 2028. Under this mission
