District collectors discuss rural water supply schemes under JJM at 'Peyjal Samvad'

District Collectors from across the country joined discussions on accelerating the implementation of Jal Jeevan Mission (JJM) 2.0 and shared best practices at the 12th edition of the District Collectors' Peyjal Samvad organised on Tuesday, an official said.The Department of Drinking Water and Sanitation (DDWS) under the Ministry of Jal Shakti organised the Samvad through video conferencing, the official added.The Samvad was chaired by Ashok K.K. Meena, DDWS Secretary.Kamal Kishore Soan, Additional Secretary and Mission Director of National Jal Jeevan Mission (NJJM) and senior officers from State Water and Sanitation Mission (SWSM) and DDWS were also present during the event, the statement said.Meena emphasised the importance of regular monthly District Water and Sanitation Mission (DWSM) meetings to review scheme progress, service delivery, water quality, and source sustainability under JJM 2.0.He stressed that completed schemes should be handed over to gram panchayats through the Jal Arpan programme after the prescribed trial run and proper documentation, thereby promoting community ownership and sustainable operation and maintenance.He urged districts to actively involve MPs, MLAs, and other public representatives through Jal Arpan ceremonies, DISHA meetings, and DWSM reviews to enhance transparency and public confidence in rural water supply systems.He also highlighted the need for timely utilisation of JJM 2.0 funds, accurate reporting of physical and financial progress, and preparation of District and State Improvement Plans to address service gaps.Meena encouraged the use of the Decision Support System (DSS) for planning source sustainability measures such as rainwater harvesting and groundwater recharge, while underscoring that regular monitoring of scheme functionality, water quality, and sustainability interventions is essential to ensure reliable and sustainable drinking water services for all rural households."The progress and best practices of six selected districts -- Shahdol (Madhya Pradesh), Samba (Jammu and Kashmir), Hooghly (West Bengal), Dhamtari (Chhattisgarh), Fatehgarh Sahib (Punjab) and North and Middle Andaman (Andaman and Nicobar Islands) were also presented by the respective District Collectors/District Magistrates/District Commissioners to facilitate cross-learning and support other districts in strengthening implementation under JJM 2.0," the statement said.