Why this matters now
JJM is a flagship water-security and public-health programme, tested for its goal, the functionality emphasis and its impact on women and health. It links to SDG-6 and sanitation.
What is JJM?
Launched in 2019 under the Ministry of Jal Shakti, JJM aims to provide every rural household with a Functional Household Tap Connection (FHTC) delivering adequate, safe drinking water on a regular and long-term basis. The emphasis is on “functional” — regular supply of quality water, not just a tap.
Key features
- Community participation — Village Water & Sanitation Committees (Pani Samitis) plan and manage local supply;
- Water-quality monitoring and source sustainability (recharge, greywater reuse);
- Convergence with SBM, MGNREGA and watershed programmes;
- Priority to water-stressed, aspirational and SC/ST-majority areas.
Significance and challenges
JJM has rapidly raised rural tap-water coverage, reducing water-borne disease and the drudgery of women and girls who fetch water. Challenges include source sustainability, water quality (arsenic/fluoride), long-term O&M, and ensuring continued functionality beyond installation.
UPSC angle
Know JJM (2019, Har Ghar Jal, FHTC), the “functional” emphasis, community management (Pani Samitis), and the source-sustainability/quality challenges.
Frequently asked questions
What is the Jal Jeevan Mission?
A 2019 mission to provide a functional household tap connection delivering safe drinking water to every rural home (“Har Ghar Jal”).
What does “functional” tap connection mean?
A connection that delivers adequate, safe water regularly and over the long term — not just a physical tap.
Who manages water supply at village level under JJM?
Village Water and Sanitation Committees (Pani Samitis), giving communities ownership.
What are the challenges of JJM?
Source sustainability, water quality (arsenic/fluoride), long-term operation and maintenance, and sustained functionality.