Lucknow: In an important meeting related to the Jal Jeevan Mission, Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath provided essential directives to officials, stressing that the provision of pure drinking water to all villages should be expedited.
He emphasized that, in addition to pipeline installation, adequate measures for operation and maintenance must be in place. Highlighting the critical role of plumbers in ensuring clean water access for every household, the Chief Minister instructed officials to ensure they receive proper training.
◆ The Chief Minister emphasized that only high-quality materials should be used in the Jal Jeevan Mission, ensuring that pipes, taps, and other components are of the best standard. He also instructed that any stolen or damaged taps be promptly replaced. During the meeting, officials informed the Chief Minister that arrangements are being made to provide pure drinking water to over 2.63 crore households in the state, with a total cost of Rs 1 lakh 60 thousand crore. Additionally, approximately Rs 4,500 crore will be allocated annually for the operation and maintenance of the system.
◆ The Chief Minister stated that access to pure drinking water is crucial for health. Providing clean water to rural communities will prevent various diseases, contributing to overall village health. He likened the scheme to a form of water therapy, which will significantly relieve conditions such as digestive issues, urinary problems, jaundice, kidney stones, and kidney failure.
◆ The Chief Minister emphasized the need to raise awareness among villagers about the Jal Jeevan Mission through officials and public representatives. He urged that a detailed action plan be developed in collaboration with the Gram Pradhan. He stated that villagers should be informed that pure drinking water is being provided at a cost lower than their monthly mobile expenses. Panchayat assistants and BC Sakhis should be involved in this effort. He also specifically instructed that roads excavated for pipeline installation must be repaired promptly.
◆ The Chief Minister also instructed officials to focus on making the villages in the state healthy and self-sufficient. He emphasized the goal of achieving self-reliance for every village. He suggested starting fish farming in village ponds that are not associated with temples and exploring income opportunities by establishing gram haat and permanent shops. For this, officials, local public representatives and ministers should also visit villages and have detailed discussions with the Pradhan and villagers.
◆ The Chief Minister highlighted that the Gram Sachivalaya model is garnering national attention for its effectiveness in addressing village issues. Villagers now have access to services locally that previously required a visit to the tehsil. He encouraged fostering healthy competition among villages to achieve self-reliance. For this, they will have to be encouraged at the government level. Additionally, he proposed that the government should allocate funds to villages equivalent to the income they generate from their own sources.
