The Department of Drinking Water and Sanitation under the Ministry of Jal Shakti signed a reform-linked Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Government of Sikkim on June 9, marking a new phase in the implementation of Jal Jeevan Mission 2.0 aimed at improving rural drinking water governance and long-term sustainability.

The agreement focuses on a Gram Panchayat-led, community-driven model for managing rural water supply systems. Officials said the framework is designed to ensure regular access to safe drinking water for rural households while strengthening local participation, accountability and infrastructure maintenance.

Community-Led Model At The Core Of Water Governance Reform

Under the MoU, rural water supply management will be shifted further towards decentralised governance, with Gram Panchayats and Village Water and Sanitation Committees taking a central role in operation and maintenance.

The agreement emphasises service-based delivery, regular monitoring and source sustainability as key components of rural water infrastructure. Officials said the approach aligns with the broader goals of Jal Jeevan Mission 2.0, which prioritises not only expansion of tap water connections but also their long-term functionality.

The initiative also links reforms to district-level planning through the preparation of District Improvement Plans based on Gram Panchayat assessments, aimed at identifying service gaps and improving delivery outcomes.

Focus On Sustainability And Long-Term Infrastructure Management

The Ministry of Jal Shakti said the MoU places strong emphasis on sustaining existing water infrastructure created under the Jal Jeevan Mission. It calls for improved operation and maintenance systems, water quality monitoring and regular performance reviews at the district level.

Officials highlighted the need for States to notify comprehensive maintenance policies and strengthen institutional mechanisms for rural water governance. The framework also includes time-bound targets for creating digital identification systems for water supply assets and improving monitoring systems.

Sikkim, a Himalayan state with difficult terrain and dispersed settlements, has already expanded rural tap water coverage under the national mission, according to state officials.

Centre-State Coordination Under Jal Jeevan Mission 2.0

The agreement was signed in the presence of Union Jal Shakti Minister C.R. Patil and Sikkim Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang. Officials from the Department of Drinking Water and Sanitation said the MoU reflects a shared commitment between the Centre and the state to improve rural water security.

Government representatives noted that Jal Jeevan Mission has significantly expanded access to tap water in rural India since its launch, and the current phase focuses on ensuring sustainability, community ownership and reliable service delivery.

Officials said district administrations will play a key role in monitoring implementation, supporting Gram Panchayats and ensuring timely review of rural water supply systems.

The MoU is expected to strengthen long-term rural water governance and support India’s broader goal of universal, sustainable access to safe drinking water.