Jaipur, Oct 11 (NationPress) Union Jal Shakti Minister C.R. Paatil stated that under the guidance of Chief Minister Bhajan Lal Sharma, Rajasthan is establishing new standards in water conservation and is on track to become a national example for water self-sufficiency.

Paatil underscored that no other state comprehends the significance of water better than Rajasthan, with ongoing efforts under the ‘Jal Sanchay–Jan Bhagidari–Jan Andolan’ initiative poised to inspire the whole nation.

While addressing an event in Mandrela, Jhunjhunu, Paatil remarked that remarkable strides are being made in the state to ensure every drop of rainwater is utilized effectively, adding that those responsible for irregularities in the Jal Jeevan Mission during the previous administration “will face consequences.”

Chief Minister Sharma, speaking to the audience, mentioned that in response to Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s appeal for public involvement in water conservation, both migrant Rajasthanis and residents are stepping up to make Rajasthan water self-reliant.

He called upon citizens to commit to rainwater conservation in every village and farm for the welfare of future generations.

Sharma addressed the ‘Jal Sanchay-Jan Bhagidari-Jan Andolan’ program held at Mandrela, Jhunjhunu, alongside Union Jal Shakti Minister C.R. Paatil.

He pointed out that significant irregularities had occurred in the execution of the Jal Jeevan Mission (JJM) during the previous government’s term.

“Our government has taken decisive measures against those accountable, and no individual involved in the JJM irregularities will be overlooked,” he affirmed.

The Chief Minister announced that the government is diligently working to secure sufficient water availability through initiatives like the Ram Jalsetu Link Project and new water conservation strategies.

He highlighted that while the previous government failed to bring Yamuna water to Shekhawati, the current administration has entered into a Memorandum of Understanding with the Haryana Government for the Yamuna Water Agreement, with work on its Detailed Project Report (DPR) currently underway.

Additionally, an MoU has been signed with both the Central Government and the Madhya Pradesh Government for the Ram Jalsetu Link Project, which aims to provide irrigation and drinking water to 17 districts in Eastern Rajasthan.

In terms of achievements, the Chief Minister proclaimed, “We have achieved more in just a year and a half than the previous administration did in its entire term.”

He reported that the government has already invested ₹13,000 crore in water-related projects, contrasting with the ₹4,500 crore spent by the previous government. Under the Jal Jeevan Mission, 1.3 million new household tap connections have been established in just one and a half years, compared to the 1.75 lakh connections the previous government managed in the same timeframe.