Parliament Question: Jal Jeevan Mission in Assam

GOVERNMENT OF INDIA MINISTRY OF JAL SHAKTI DEPARTMENT OF DRINKING WATER & SANITATION RAJYA SABHA UNSTARRED QUESTION NO. – 257 ANSWERED ON 02/02/2026 JAL JEEVAN MISSION IN ASSAM 257. MS. SUSHMITA DEV: Will the Minister of JAL SHAKTI be pleased to state: (a) whether it is a fact that funds under the Jal Jeevan Mission (JJM) for FY 2025–26 have been reduced, or delayed for the State of Assam, if so, the amount involved; (b) the reasons for delaying funds to Assam under the Mission, including issues related to utilisation, reporting, quality of works, or audit observations for FY 2025-26; (c) whether Government has taken cognisance of irregularities in the implementation of the JJM at the national level reported by media; and (d) whether any penalties, recoveries, blacklisting of contractors, or disciplinary action against officials have been initiated in Assam, and the details thereof? ANSWER THE MINISTER OF STATE FOR JAL SHAKTI (SHRI V. SOMANNA) (a) and (b) Since August 2019, Government of India, in partnership with States, is implementing Jal Jeevan Mission (JJM) – Har Ghar Jal to make provision of tap water supply to every rural household of the country. At the time of the launch of Jal Jeevan Mission, the Government had approved central outlay of ₹2,08,652 Crore for the mission. The approved Central outlay has almost been utilized till 2024-25. Further, considering the progress achieved so far and ongoing works, Hon’ble Finance Minister has announced extension of Jal Jeevan Mission till December 2028 with enhanced total outlay through budget announcements 2025-26. As such, no amount has been allocated to any State/UT, including Assam, in 2025-26. Additionally, Water being a State subject, States have been advised to continue the implementation of ongoing works from their own resources. (c) and (d) As reported by the Government of Assam, 1,236 complaints have been received from various sources, including media reports, suo motu cognizance, references from public representatives and citizens, and the grievance portal, concerning alleged financial irregularities and substandard quality of works under the Jal Jeevan Mission (JJM). As reported by State, disciplinary proceedings have been initiated against 17 departmental officials. Further, show cause notices have been issued to three Third Party Inspection Agencies (TPIAs). With regard to contractors, action has been taken against four (04) contractors. A penalty of ₹5,08,089 was imposed on two contractors and recovered; legal action has been proposed against one contractor; and one contractor has executed work against excess payment made earlier. *****