Bhopal: A high-level review meeting on the implementation of Jal Sanchay Jan Bhagidari (JSJB) 2.0 was chaired by Union Minister of Jal Shakti C. R. Patil along with Mohan Yadav, Chief Minister of Madhya Pradesh, to assess the progress of water conservation initiatives across the state.
The meeting, organised by the National Water Mission under the Ministry of Jal Shakti, brought together all District Collectors and Divisional Commissioners of the state to review progress and strengthen implementation strategies for sustainable water management.
Focus on Groundwater Recharge and River Rejuvenation
During the meeting, discussions centred on strengthening water conservation efforts through groundwater recharge, river rejuvenation, and enhanced community participation. Officials highlighted the importance of coordinated action among districts to ensure better management of water resources before the onset of the monsoon.
The review also emphasised the need to utilise funds effectively under Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act to accelerate water conservation projects across districts.
Participation of Senior Government Officials
Several senior officials from both the central and state governments participated in the meeting, including:
- V. L. Kantha Rao, Secretary, Department of Water Resources, River Development and Ganga Rejuvenation
- Archana Verma, Additional Secretary and Managing Director, National Water Mission
- Rajesh Kumar Rajora, Additional Chief Secretary, Water Resource Department, Madhya Pradesh
- Dipali Rastogi, Additional Chief Secretary, Panchayat & Rural Development Department
- Sanjay Dubey, Department of Urban Development and Housing
- P. Narhari, Principal Secretary, Public Health Engineering Department
Their participation helped review district-level progress and coordinate strategies between the state and central governments.
District Presentations Highlight Local Success Stories
District Collectors from Khandwa, Rajgarh, and Indore presented detailed reports highlighting the progress and future roadmap under JSJB 2.0.
The presentations focused on:
- Groundwater recharge projects
- Restoration of rivers and water bodies
- Strengthening public participation in water conservation
These initiatives aim to improve water sustainability at the local level through community-led efforts.
Madhya Pradesh’s Performance Under JSJB 1.0
Under the first phase of the programme, Madhya Pradesh secured fourth place nationally, showcasing strong progress in water conservation initiatives.
A major highlight was Khandwa district (East Nimar), which achieved first rank among all districts in India, reflecting effective district leadership and strong community engagement in water conservation activities.
Jal Ganga Samvardhan Abhiyan Driving Community Participation
The meeting also highlighted the success of Jal Ganga Samvardhan Abhiyan, a major state initiative aimed at mobilising communities for the revival of rivers, conservation of water bodies, and strengthening local water sources.
Large-scale water conservation works in forest areas and community-driven projects have significantly contributed to groundwater recharge and sustainable water management across the state.
Chief Minister Reaffirms Commitment to Water Conservation
Chief Minister Mohan Yadav reiterated the state government’s strong commitment to protecting water resources. He emphasised that Madhya Pradesh will continue to play a leading role in the national mission for water security.
He also highlighted the importance of sustained community participation in initiatives aimed at river rejuvenation, source sustainability, and maintaining cleanliness in rivers flowing through the state.
Jal Sanchay Jan Bhagidari Becoming a National Movement
Union Jal Shakti Minister C. R. Patil said that under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Jal Sanchay Jan Bhagidari has evolved into a nationwide people’s movement.
He noted that districts like Khandwa have demonstrated how strong community participation can deliver remarkable outcomes in water conservation and river restoration.
“Karmabhoomi Se Matribhoomi Abhiyan” Supporting Water Projects
The minister also highlighted the Karmabhoomi Se Matribhoomi Abhiyan, through which members of the business community from Surat and other parts of Gujarat contribute to development projects in their native regions.
Through this initiative, several water conservation works in Madhya Pradesh have received support, demonstrating how individuals can contribute to water security in their hometowns.
Call for Accelerated Action Before Monsoon
The Union Minister urged district administrations to accelerate water conservation projects before the monsoon season by effectively utilising available resources and ensuring better convergence of government schemes.
He expressed confidence that Madhya Pradesh will further strengthen its leadership in community-driven water conservation under JSJB 2.0, setting an example for other states across India.
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