Shillong, March 27: A Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed via video conference between the National Jal Jeevan Mission (NJJM), Department of Drinking Water & Sanitation under the Ministry of Jal Shakti, Government of India, and the Government of Meghalaya today, in the presence of Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma and Union Minister for Jal Shakti C. R. Patil.
The MoU pertains to the implementation of water supply schemes, under which the Centre will release funds upon the signing of the agreement. It places emphasis on ensuring proper service delivery and sustained functionality of water supply systems in villages, with the State bearing primary responsibility for implementation and outcomes.
Secretary & Commissioner (PHE), Meghalaya, Pravin Bakshi, IAS, was present at the programme along with other officials.
In his address, Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma expressed gratitude for the signing of the MoU and underscored the State Government’s commitment to ensuring safe and sustainable drinking water access to every household under the Jal Jeevan Mission.
He highlighted the importance of a comprehensive water policy and emphasized ongoing efforts towards water source rejuvenation across the State. He noted that challenges related to water sources are being addressed in a holistic manner, with a focus on sustainability and long-term impact.
The Chief Minister further stated that the State Government is taking responsibility to resolve issues concerning water availability and management, particularly those linked to source sustainability, through coordinated planning and implementation.
Union Minister for Jal Shakti C. R. Patil, in his keynote address, stressed that unless drinking water reaches the last mile, the vision of the Prime Minister for a Viksit Bharat cannot be fully realised. He stated that the Government of India has accorded priority to ensuring that programmes under the Jal Jeevan Mission are implemented in the right perspective, with a focus on efficiency and outcomes.
He further highlighted the importance of convergence with other schemes such as the G-RAM-G initiative and allied programmes to strengthen implementation and maximise impact on the ground.
Earlier, the programme began with a welcome address by representatives of the National Jal Jeevan Mission, followed by a context-setting presentation by the Secretary, Department of Drinking Water & Sanitation, outlining the significance of the partnership and its expected outcomes.
This was followed by the formal signing of the MoU via video conference between NJJM and the Government of Meghalaya, marking a key step towards improving water supply infrastructure and service delivery mechanisms in the State.
The programme concluded with closing remarks reaffirming the shared commitment of the Centre and the State to strengthen water security and improve the quality of life for citizens through the effective implementation of the Jal Jeevan Mission.
