Over 15 crore rural households in India now have tap water under the Nal Se Jal scheme, with Punjab leading the charge. The state’s expansion aims for 100% coverage, transforming lives by reducing water-fetching time and boosting productivity, especially for women. WHO estimates significant health benefits, with reduced diarrhoeal deaths.
Punjab’s Push for Universal Clean Water Access
Punjab has intensified its efforts under the Nal Se Jal scheme, a flagship initiative of the Indian government aimed at providing clean drinking water to every rural household. Recent data highlights that over 15 crore rural households across India now have access to tap water, a significant leap from just 3.23 crore (17%) at the scheme’s inception in 2019. Punjab, in particular, has made remarkable strides, with the state government announcing an expansion of the program to achieve 100% coverage in rural areas by 2026.
The Nal Se Jal scheme, part of the Jal Jeevan Mission, focuses on delivering piped water supply to households, reducing the burden of water collection, which disproportionately affects women and children. In Punjab, this initiative has already transformed rural communities by saving an estimated 5.5 crore hours daily that were previously spent fetching water. This time-saving has led to increased labor participation, particularly among women, boosting household incomes and local economies.
According to state officials, Punjab has completed tap water connections for over 80% of its rural households, with plans to cover the remaining areas in the next two years. The scheme also emphasizes water quality, with regular testing to ensure compliance with safety standards. The World Health Organization (WHO) estimates that universal access to clean water could prevent approximately 4 lakh diarrhoeal deaths annually in India, underscoring the scheme’s public health impact.
The Punjab government has allocated significant funds for infrastructure upgrades, including new pipelines, water treatment plants, and storage facilities. Community involvement has been a cornerstone of the program, with local panchayats playing a key role in monitoring and maintenance. The state is also integrating sustainable practices, such as rainwater harvesting, to ensure long-term water security in water-scarce regions.
Challenges remain, including addressing water contamination in certain districts and ensuring consistent supply in remote villages. However, Punjab’s proactive approach, coupled with central government support, has positioned the state as a model for others. The expansion of Nal Se Jal is not just about providing water but about empowering communities, improving health outcomes, and fostering economic growth.
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