THE JHARKHAND STORY NETWORK
Ranchi, June 25: Chief Secretary Alka Tiwari has called on all Deputy Commissioners (DCs) to take proactive leadership in accelerating the Jal Jeevan Mission – the government’s flagship initiative to ensure tap water reaches every rural household by 2028.
Chairing a virtual review meeting on Wednesday, Tiwari stressed the importance of coordination and regular monitoring at the district level. “Deputy Commissioners must take ownership of this mission. Actively engage with local leaders, review progress regularly, and solve field-level issues on the ground,” she urged.
Principal Secretary (DWSD) M R Meena was also present at the meeting.
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Tiwari issued a strong warning against any case of full payment being made for incomplete work. “Such matters should be taken seriously. Investigate promptly and ensure strict action is taken,” she said. She added that regular site visits should be part of every DC’s schedule, and officers should personally assess the work being carried out under the mission.
To strengthen the technical capacity of districts, each DC will now be supported by two dedicated engineers. These engineers will work under the direct supervision of the DC and form part of a local technical cell to oversee the implementation. “Assign them daily tasks and review their progress routinely,” she advised.
Agencies to maintain schemes for five years
The Chief Secretary reminded officials that the implementing agencies are contractually bound to maintain water supply schemes for five years. “Minor issues must be resolved without delay. If any agency fails to meet this obligation, report it immediately. The matter will be resolved at the headquarters level,” she assured.
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She also urged DCs to remove administrative bottlenecks on priority and to ensure that completed schemes are handed over to the local Gram Samiti (village committee) without delay.
Progress so far in Jharkhand
Launched on August 15, 2019, the Jal Jeevan Mission aims to provide functional tap water connections to all rural households, schools, and Anganwadi centres by December 2028.
Jharkhand has taken up 97,535 schemes under this mission, out of which 56,332 have been completed. As of now, 24,781 completed schemes have been handed over to Gram Samitis, and efforts are ongoing to hand over the rest.
The state has a total of 29,398 villages. Of these, 6,963 villages have already been fully connected with tap water. Out of 62.5 lakh rural households, over 34.4 lakh homes are now receiving tap water connections.
The road ahead
With just over three years to go until the deadline, officials are being urged to maintain momentum. Tiwari emphasised that the mission is not just about infrastructure but about improving lives. “Every tap connection brings health, dignity and opportunity – let’s ensure no home is left behind,” she concluded.
