Srinagar, November 17: Concluding on a high note, the Jal Jeevan Mission (JJM), as part of the fifth phase of the ambitious ‘Back to Village’ program, executed 4464 activities throughout Jammu and Kashmir.
These diverse activities encompassed a wide range, including awareness camps, inauguration of water supply schemes, work inspections, training sessions for handling and distributing field testing kits (FTKs), convening Gram Sabhas, debates, painting competitions, installation of signages, collection and testing of water samples, and other associated initiatives.
Highlights of these activities comprised 1129 special Gram Sabhas, training of 971 women in FTK handling, 576 FTK handling training sessions, inspections of 530 projects by Visiting Officers, FTK-based water testing in 497 villages, FTK distribution in 221 villages, installation of 146 signages, 108 water awareness camps, 87 school rallies, and 29 painting competitions.
District-wise statistics reveal 504 activities in Jammu district, 496 in Kulgam district, 407 in Rajouri district, followed by 406 in Reasi, 398 in Kishtwar, and 316 in Pulwama, among others.
The Jal Jeevan Mission (JJM) is a pivotal national program aimed at providing Functional Household Tap Connections (FHTCs) to 18.67 lakh rural households in the UT of J&K, with an estimated budget of Rs. 14000 crore. This initiative not only involves establishing a sustainable water infrastructure but also focuses on building the capacities of local communities, engaging them in the long-term management of water supply assets.
Shaleen Kabra, Additional Chief Secretary, Jal Shakti, commended the field Engineering teams and District Jal Jeevan Missions for their initiatives. He urged stakeholders to escalate efforts, ensuring timely completion of mission targets while maintaining accountability, transparency, and involving local communities.
During his visit as the prabhari officer to Sool Panchayat, Kabra interacted with the public, emphasizing various UT and Central Government schemes, notably focusing on the Jal Jeevan Mission.
Dr. G N Itoo, Mission Director, Jal Shakti, expressed gratitude to all Deputy Commissioners for their active support, making the campaign a resounding success. He also extended appreciation to visiting officers, PRIs, local communities, line departments, field staff, and other agencies for their cooperation in the campaign.”
