Ministry of Jal Shakti reviews progress in over-exploited and critical groundwater districts

**Executive Summary** The Ministry of Jal Shakti reviewed the progress of the Jal Sanchay Jan Bhagidari (JSJB) 2.0 initiative in over-exploited and critical groundwater districts on 29 DEC 2025. The review focused on achieving the goal of creating one crore artificial recharge and storage structures by 31 May 2026. District Collectors were urged to prioritise measurable outcomes and timely reporting. **Key Points / Main Content** * **JSJB 2.0 Initiative:** * Aims to create one crore artificial recharge and storage structures by 31 May 2026. * Emphasis on accelerating water conservation works in stressed districts. * Promotes water conservation through public participation. * **Funding and Activities:** * 65% of MGNREGA funds in Over-Exploited and Critical blocks are earmarked for water-related works. * 15 additional water conservation and groundwater recharge activities are now permitted under MGNREGA, only for Over-Exploited, Critical and Semi-Critical districts. * Includes recharge shafts, injection wells, filtration ponds, artificial wetlands, renovation of traditional water bodies, and spring collection chambers. * **Implementation Guidance:** * Districts were guided on using scientific feasibility (BISAG) maps and CGWB technical support. * Emphasised the convergence of schemes for rapid implementation. * **Best Practices:** * Top three performing districts (Banaskantha, Salem, and Barmer) shared their best practices. **Impact Analysis** **District Collectors and District Development Officers** * **Impact:** They are involved in the implementation and monitoring of the JSJB 2.0 initiative in their respective districts. * **Action Required:** Prioritise measurable outcomes, timely reporting, and implement based on the BISAG maps and CGWB technical support. **Over-Exploited, Critical and Semi-Critical districts** * **Impact:** These districts are the focus of the JSJB 2.0 initiative, with the aim of improving water security and sustainability. * **Action Required:** Implement water conservation and groundwater recharge activities as permitted under MGNREGA. **Ministry of Jal Shakti and Ministry of Rural Development** * **Impact:** Responsible for overseeing and supporting the implementation of the JSJB 2.0 initiative. * **Action Required:** Provide guidance, technical support, and ensure the convergence of schemes for rapid implementation.

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