Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma has reiterated the state government’s commitment to providing safe and sustainable drinking water access to every household. A key Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed with the Centre under the Jal Jeevan Mission. The MoU, signed via video conference, involved the National Jal Jeevan Mission (NJJM) and the Government of Meghalaya, with the presence of Sangma and Union Jal Shakti Minister C.R. Patil.
Highlighting the state’s priorities, Sangma emphasized Meghalaya’s adoption of a comprehensive, long-term approach to water management, focusing on sustainability and source rejuvenation. He stated, “We are committed to ensuring that every household has access to safe drinking water. At the same time, we are addressing challenges related to water sources holistically to ensure long-term sustainability.”
The agreement sets the framework for implementing water supply schemes, with the Centre releasing funds post-MoU signing, while the state takes primary responsibility for execution and service delivery. Union Minister C.R. Patil emphasized the importance of achieving last-mile connectivity in drinking water supply to realize the Prime Minister’s vision of a “Viksit Bharat.”
Patil highlighted the necessity of efficient implementation of the Jal Jeevan Mission with a focus on outcomes. He also stressed the significance of convergence with other initiatives, such as the G-RAM-G program, to maximize impact. The program, attended by senior officials including Meghalaya PHE Secretary Pravin Bakshi, concluded with both sides reaffirming their commitment to enhancing water security in the state.
