New Delhi: The Technical and Financial Assistance for Water Conservation in India has become a key focus area as water remains a State subject but requires strong Central support.
According to the official reports, the Government of India is actively helping States through funding, technical expertise, and national-level programs to improve water conservation, groundwater recharge, and river cleaning.
These efforts aim to tackle water scarcity, pollution, and climate challenges while ensuring long-term water security across rural and urban areas.
Details of Technical and Financial Assistance for Water Conservation
Water management, including conservation and supply, is primarily handled by State Governments. However, the Central Government plays a supportive role by:
- Providing technical guidance
- Offering financial assistance
- Launching national missions and schemes
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This cooperative model ensures better implementation across India.
Jal Sanchay Jan Bhagidari (JSJB): Community-Driven Water Conservation
One of the key initiatives is Jal Sanchay Jan Bhagidari (JSJB), launched in Surat in September 2024.
Key Features:
- Focus on community participation
- Creation of low-cost rainwater harvesting structures
- Use of local materials and funds (CSR, donations, community funds)
Structures Promoted:
- Recharge pits
- Borewells
- Recharge shafts
The goal is to increase groundwater levels and provide local solutions to water issues.
Convergence of Funds Across Schemes
The government is not relying on a single scheme. Instead, it uses a multi-scheme funding approach.
Major Schemes Involved:
- MGNREGS
- AMRUT
- PMKSY (Per Drop More Crop)
- CAMPA Funds
- Finance Commission Grants
This ensures maximum impact with efficient resource use and faster project implementation.
Technical Support Mechanism for States
To ensure proper execution, the Centre provides strong technical support.
Key Measures
- Deployment of Central Ground Water Board (CGWB) experts
- Support from Central Water Commission (CWC)
- Appointment of State Nodal Officers
- Monitoring and verification of projects
This helps maintain quality, transparency, and efficiency in water conservation works.
Technical and Financial Assistance for Water Conservation: NRCP and Namami Gange
1. National River Conservation Plan (NRCP)
- Focus: Pollution control in rivers (excluding Ganga main basin)
- Activities:
- Sewage treatment plants
- Drain diversion
- Riverfront development
- Coverage:
- 100 towns across 17 States
- ₹8,970+ crore sanctioned projects
- 3019 MLD sewage treatment capacity created
2. Namami Gange Programme
- Focus on Ganga rejuvenation
- Key Interventions:
- Wastewater treatment
- Solid waste management
- Biodiversity conservation
- Public participation
These programs aim to clean rivers and restore ecosystems.
River Basin Management: Brahmaputra Model
Under the River Basin Management (RBM) approach:
- Special focus on Brahmaputra basin
- Assistance includes:
- Flood management
- Erosion control
- Drainage development
- Spring rejuvenation
This ensures holistic river management, not just isolated projects.
Jal Jeevan Mission: Strengthening Water Access
The Centre also supports water supply through Jal Jeevan Mission (JJM).
Key Achievements
- Over 12.5 crore new rural households got tap water
- Total coverage now 80%+ rural households
The Centre provides funding and technical support while States implement projects.
Technical and Financial Assistance for Water Conservation: Funding Pattern for States
Different funding patterns ensure support to all regions:
- Union Territories (without legislature): 100% Central funding
- North-East & Himalayan States: 90:10 (Centre:State)
- Other States: 50:50 sharing
This ensures equity and regional balance in development.
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