Shillong, March 27: Government of Meghalaya on Friday signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the National Jal Jeevan Mission (NJJM), under the Ministry of Jal Shakti, to fast-track the implementation of drinking water supply schemes across the State.
The agreement, signed via video conference in the presence of Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma and Union Jal Shakti Minister C. R. Patil, will enable the Centre to release funds linked to performance and service delivery outcomes under the Jal Jeevan Mission.
The MoU places strong emphasis on ensuring sustained functionality of rural water supply systems, with the State government assuming primary responsibility for implementation, monitoring, and long-term outcomes.
Secretary & Commissioner (PHE), Meghalaya, Pravin Bakshi, along with senior officials, attended the programme.
Addressing the gathering, Sangma welcomed the agreement and reiterated the State’s commitment to providing safe and sustainable drinking water to every household. He stressed the need for a comprehensive water policy and highlighted ongoing efforts to rejuvenate water sources across Meghalaya.
“Challenges related to water availability are being addressed in a holistic manner, with a focus on long-term sustainability,” the Chief Minister said, adding that the government is prioritising coordinated planning to tackle issues of water management and source sustainability.
In his keynote address, Patil underscored the importance of last-mile delivery, stating that the vision of a “Viksit Bharat” can only be realised when safe drinking water reaches every household. He emphasised that the Jal Jeevan Mission must be implemented with efficiency and outcome-oriented planning.
The Union Minister also called for convergence with other initiatives, including the G-RAM-G programme, to enhance impact and strengthen on-ground execution.
The programme began with a welcome address by NJJM representatives, followed by a presentation by the Department of Drinking Water & Sanitation outlining the significance of the partnership and expected outcomes.
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