Following the MoU signed by CM Bhajanlal Sharma and Union Minister C.R. Paatil, Rajasthan initiated structural reforms under Jal Jeevan Mission 2.0. The state is operationalising the 'Jal Arpan' process in rural districts, transferring completed piped water schemes directly to Gram Panchayats. This community-centric governance model focuses on source sustainability and transparent digital data management.
“Under the second phase of the Jal Jeevan Mission, the Rajasthan government is handing over the management of village tap water systems to the local Gram Panchayats. This means the villagers themselves will manage, maintain, and collect small fees for their water supply, making the system more reliable and accountable to the local people.”
Rajasthan Polity and Administration
Jal Jeevan Mission 2.0 shifts the paradigm from simple infrastructure provision (laying pipes) to 'utility-based service delivery'. It relies on participatory governance where the Village Water and Sanitation Committee acts as a mini-water utility. This ensures localized operation and maintenance, solving the classic public good tragedy where state-owned assets fall into disrepair.
What is the primary objective of the 'Jal Arpan' process initiated under Jal Jeevan Mission 2.0 in Rajasthan?
Under the 73rd Constitutional Amendment, which schedule details the subjects, including drinking water, transferred to Panchayati Raj Institutions?
Critically analyze the role of Gram Panchayats in ensuring the long-term sustainability of rural drinking water schemes in Rajasthan under Jal Jeevan Mission 2.0.
Rajasthan Polity: Panchayati Raj Institutions (PRIs) and local self-government (73rd Amendment).
Expected interview inquiries focusing on administrative neutrality, policy implications, and practical field limits.
Critical syllabus indicator for upcoming cycles: Under the second phase of the Jal Jeevan Mission, the Rajasthan government is handing over the management of village tap water systems to the local Gram Panchayats. This means the villagers themselves will manage, maintain, and collect small fees for their water supply, making the system more reliable and accountable to the local people.