The "Ministry of Jal Shakti" was formed by merging "Ministry of Water Resources, River Development & Ganga Rejuvenation" along with?

The correct answer is Ministry of Drinking Water and Sanitation.

Key Points

• The Ministry of Jal Shakti was formed in May 2019 by merging the Ministry of Water Resources, River Development & Ganga Rejuvenation and the Ministry of Drinking Water and Sanitation.
• This move aimed at integrating management of water resources and supply across India under a single umbrella ministry.
• The Ministry of Jal Shakti focuses on issues related to water conservation, supply, management, and sanitation, including the implementation of flagship programs like the Jal Jeevan Mission.
• The merger was part of the government’s efforts to streamline policies and strengthen the institutional framework for addressing water-related challenges in the country.
• The Ministry also oversees the National Water Mission and other initiatives aimed at ensuring sustainable water use and equitable distribution.

Additional Information

• Jal Jeevan Mission:
  • Launched in 2019, this mission aims to provide functional household tap connections (FHTC) to every rural household by 2024.
  • It emphasizes the importance of community participation in water resource management.
  • The program also focuses on water quality monitoring and capacity building at the village level.
• National Water Mission:
  • This mission is part of India’s National Action Plan on Climate Change (NAPCC).
  • Its objective is to conserve water, minimize waste, and ensure equitable distribution across regions.
  • The mission promotes the development of basin-level water resource management strategies.
• Swachh Bharat Mission:
  • Previously implemented under the Ministry of Drinking Water and Sanitation, now part of Jal Shakti Ministry.
  • It aims to eliminate open defecation and improve sanitation facilities across India.
  • The program has significantly contributed to improving hygiene and water-related health outcomes.
• Integrated Water Resource Management (IWRM):
  • This concept promotes coordinated development and management of water resources to maximize economic and social welfare.
  • The Ministry of Jal Shakti plays a key role in implementing IWRM strategies nationwide.