Published Paper Details:

The Government of India launched the Jal Jeevan Mission (JJM) in 2019 under the Ministry of Jal Shakti, aiming to strengthen the implementation of rural water supply programs. The mission has facilitated the provision of Functional Household Tap Connections (FHTCs) to rural households, enabling them to obtain safe and adequate drinking water directly at their homes. The Jal Jeevan Mission has significantly improved rural drinking water access in Himachal Pradesh, making the state one of the top performers in the country. The state has recorded 99.9 per cent household tap water coverage, surpassing the national average, and most districts have achieved complete coverage with efficient functionality, regular supply, adequate quantity, and good water quality. The present study examines the year-wise progress of household tap water coverage, analyses the district-wise performance, evaluates the level of awareness and investigates the socio-economic impact of the Jal Jeevan Mission on rural households of Himachal Pradesh. Both primary and secondary data sources were used in the study. A multistage area sampling technique was adopted for selecting the respondents. The collected data were analysed using descriptive statistics and Pearson correlation analysis. The study found that the Jal Jeevan Mission has achieved nearly universal coverage of functional household tap connections, though a few districts still face challenges due to geographical constraints, limited water resources, and infrastructural limitations. The findings also highlight that while water quality compliance remains high across most districts, irregular water supply persists in some areas due to mountainous geography, limited water sources, and old water infrastructure, along with seasonal variations and heavy water demand in city areas. Moreover, certain challenges remain, including the need to ensure sustainable water sources, address seasonal water shortages, and improve the operation and maintenance of village-level water supply systems. The study recommended that strengthening awareness initiatives and addressing district-level infrastructural challenges can further enhance the long-term socio-economic benefits of the Jal Jeevan Mission in Himachal Pradesh.