State is set to receive approximately Rs 19,000 crore in central assistance following the Union Cabinet’s decision to extend and restructure the ‘Jal Jeevan Mission’ (JJM). Chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the Cabinet has approved the mission’s extension until December 2028, rebranding it as ‘Jal Jeevan Mission 2.0’ with a significantly increased total outlay of Rs 8.69 lakh crore. The State moved swiftly to capitalise on this extension, signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Union Ministry of Jal Shakti on the very first day of the new phase. The agreement was finalised in the presence of Union Jal Shakti Minister C R Patil and Madhya Pradesh Public Health Engineering Minister Sampatiya Uike. Under this pact, the Centre will provide robust support for the development of comprehensive delivery systems, ensuring that the infrastructure, from pipeline laying to household taps, is sustainable and transparent. Chief Minister Dr Mohan Yadav welcomed the initiative, expressing his gratitude to the Prime Minister for the enhanced focus on rural quality of life. He emphasised that Madhya Pradesh is not just looking at infrastructure expansion but is prioritising a service-based model.

 

“We are implementing all approved rural tap water schemes with a strict focus on quality and time-bound completion,” the Chief Minister stated. He further noted that the state is already conducting ‘water audits’ and inspections in ‘Har Ghar Jal Certified’ villages to ensure long-term sustainability. A key highlight of the state’s approach is the ‘Jal Arpan’ celebrations, where completed schemes are handed over to the community. The country’s first such ceremony took place in Kundibey village, Rajgarh, in late 2025. To further empower local governance, the State Cabinet recently approved the ‘Madhya Pradesh Rural Tap Water Scheme Operation, Maintenance and Management Policy, 2026,’ which grants Gram Panchayats the authority and resources to manage their own water systems. From March 8 to 22, the State is observing ‘Jal Mahotsav’ to promote conservation.