The Government of West Bengal has reportedly utilized only 50% of the central funds allocated for the Jal Jeevan Mission, according to a statement made by the Union Ministry of Jal Shakti in Parliament. This revelation has raised concerns regarding the state’s commitment to improving water supply and sanitation infrastructure, particularly in rural areas, where access to clean drinking water remains a critical issue.
The Jal Jeevan Mission, launched by the Indian government in August 2019, aims to provide safe and adequate drinking water through individual household tap connections to all rural households by 2024. The initiative is part of a broader effort to enhance water supply and sanitation across the country, addressing the challenges posed by inadequate infrastructure and water scarcity. The mission is funded through a mix of central and state contributions, with the central government providing significant financial support to states for the implementation of water supply projects.
According to the Union Ministry of Jal Shakti, West Bengal was allocated a total of INR 7,000 crore (approximately USD 840 million) for the Jal Jeevan Mission for the financial years 2020-2021 and 2021-2022. However, the state has reportedly disbursed only INR 3,500 crore (around USD 420 million) of the allocated funds, leading to questions about the effective utilization of resources and the progress of the mission in the state.
The implications of this underutilization are significant. Access to clean drinking water is a fundamental right, and the lack of adequate funding and implementation can hinder the state’s ability to meet the mission’s objectives. In rural areas, where many households rely on traditional sources of water, the absence of reliable tap connections can lead to health issues, including waterborne diseases. The situation is particularly concerning in the context of the ongoing challenges posed by climate change, which has exacerbated water scarcity in many regions of India.
The Centre’s criticism of West Bengal’s performance in the Jal Jeevan Mission is not an isolated incident. The state has faced scrutiny in the past regarding its handling of various central schemes. The relationship between the central government and the West Bengal government has been marked by political tensions, particularly since the Trinamool Congress (TMC) came to power in 2011. The TMC has often accused the central government of withholding funds and undermining state autonomy, while the Centre has pointed to the state’s performance in implementing central schemes as a measure of accountability.
In response to the Centre’s claims, West Bengal’s Minister of State for Water Supply and Sanitation, Sushanta Chowdhury, defended the state’s record, stating that the government has been actively working to improve water supply infrastructure. He emphasized that the state has made significant progress in providing tap connections to rural households, with over 50% of households reportedly receiving access to clean drinking water. Chowdhury attributed the slower utilization of funds to various factors, including delays in project approvals and the need for comprehensive planning to ensure sustainable water supply solutions.
The Jal Jeevan Mission is a critical component of the Indian government’s broader strategy to achieve the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 6, which aims to ensure availability and sustainable management of water and sanitation for all. The mission’s success is essential not only for public health but also for economic development, as reliable water supply is crucial for agriculture, industry, and overall quality of life.
As the deadline for the mission approaches, the performance of states like West Bengal will be closely monitored. The Centre has expressed its commitment to supporting states in achieving the mission’s objectives, but it also emphasizes the need for accountability and effective utilization of funds. The ongoing dialogue between the central and state governments will be crucial in addressing the challenges faced in implementing the Jal Jeevan Mission and ensuring that all households have access to safe and adequate drinking water.
In conclusion, the reported underutilization of central funds by West Bengal for the Jal Jeevan Mission highlights the complexities of intergovernmental relations in India and the challenges of implementing large-scale infrastructure projects. As the nation strives to meet its water supply goals, the actions taken by both the central and state governments will play a pivotal role in shaping the future of rural water access in India.
