The Jal Jeevan Mission (JJM), which was launched to provide Functional Household Tap Connection to every rural household, is hit by allegations of scam.
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Pipes and Probes
Prime Minister Narendra Modi launched the Jal Jeevan Mission (JJM) in 2019 with a vision to provide Functional Household Tap Connection (FHTC) to every rural household, school, anganwadi centre, health centre and other public institution in the country. As per the data provided by the Ministry of Jal Shakti, more than 15.78 crore rural households have got water tap connections out of the total 19.36 crore households in the country as of January 8, 2026, covering more than 81.5 per cent of the targeted population. As for Nagaland, it updated that about 3.41 lakh rural households, out of the total 3.63 lakh, have benefited from the scheme, covering nearly 94 per cent. The government of India has missed its December 2024 deadline for achieving 100 per cent coverage of the scheme, which has now been extended to 2028, but the progress made in its implementation so far is undoubtedly a significant milestone. This ambitious flagship programme with an outlay of INR 2.08 lakh crore has transformed the lives of lakhs of people. By providing safe and adequate drinking water to the most vulnerable population in the country, communities are empowered – enhancing hygiene and improving health, which reduces waterborne diseases and fosters a healthier community. It is a significant step towards ensuring long-term water sustainability for the rural population of the country.
However, like most social welfare programmes, the Jal Jeevan Mission has been hit by criticism and complaints, from allegations of fund misappropriation to the use of substandard materials, data manipulation and non-implementation. Several states, including Nagaland, have reported irregularities related to the scheme. A civil society organisation had, in 2024, sought a probe into its execution by an SIT, claiming a financial scam to the tune of INR 1712.03 crore in Nagaland. In the neighbouring state of Manipur, a youth-led movement called Youth Rise for Change has filed a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) in the state High Court, seeking a probe into JJM implementation in Senapati district by the CBI or a court-monitored SIT, claiming a wide gap between official reporting and actual execution on the ground. Meanwhile, in Rajasthan, the Enforcement Directorate and the Anti-Corruption Bureau are investigating six officers over allegations of fraud and money laundering related to the scheme and several arrests made. Some states have either taken action or initiated probes against the officials and parties involved, while others have not. Months after deploying more than 100 teams across the country to inspect the implementation of JJM on the ground, the Centre has directed states to outline action taken against erring officials. What remains to be seen is the actual enforcement. It’s time for action.