Bhubaneswar, March 25: The Odisha government has taken a significant step by signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the central government to effectively implement the Jal Jeevan Mission 2.0. This agreement marks the beginning of a new chapter in providing tap water to every household and promoting water conservation in the state.
According to a post from the Chief Minister’s Office on the official ‘X’ handle, the MoU was signed during a virtual event between the Water Ministry in New Delhi and the Odisha government. Chief Minister Mohan Chara Manjhi participated from the Lok Seva Bhawan in Bhubaneswar, while Union Water Minister C.R. Patil and State Minister V. Somanna joined from New Delhi.
On this occasion, Chief Minister Manjhi stated that Jal Jeevan Mission 2.0 represents a major step towards ensuring water security in Odisha’s rural areas. The state government has developed a clear roadmap for the mission, emphasizing community participation, financial stability, and efficient maintenance under the operation and maintenance policy.
The central cabinet has approved the extension of this mission until 2028. The Odisha government is contributing approximately 40 percent of the total expenditure for the mission. To facilitate citizens, the ‘Vasudha Helpline’, WhatsApp services, and a digital grievance redressal platform have been strengthened.
As for the mission’s achievements so far, it includes the construction of 221,000 water conservation and rainwater harvesting structures, restoration of over 43,000 water bodies, completion of 42,000 groundwater recharge initiatives, and more than 200,000 watershed-related projects. Additionally, over 20 million trees have been planted to maintain ecological balance.
Union Minister C.R. Patil mentioned that Jal Jeevan Mission 2.0 will not only focus on water supply but will also emphasize sustainable water management, source protection, and community participation. Odisha is making good progress in this direction.
Chief Minister Manjhi urged villagers to play an active role in water conservation. He affirmed that access to clean drinking water is a fundamental right for every individual, and the government is committed to ensuring it.
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