Governance Report: Student Participation under Jal Jeevan Mission 2.0
The Department of Drinking Water and Sanitation (DDWS) has urged States and Union Territories to facilitate the participation of students from local educational institutions under Jal Jeevan Mission 2.0 (JJM 2.0). The initiative seeks to strengthen the learning ecosystem in the rural water supply sector by connecting educational institutions and students with local water management efforts.
The proposed engagement is aimed at providing students with practical exposure to issues related to rural drinking water supply, water conservation, sustainability and community-based water management. By encouraging participation at the local level, the initiative can help bridge the gap between academic learning and field-level governance.
A key focus of the initiative is to promote innovation and problem-solving among students. Educational institutions can contribute through research, technology-based solutions, awareness activities and innovative approaches to improving the sustainability and efficiency of rural water supply systems.
The initiative also seeks to enhance the visibility of impactful work undertaken in the rural water sector. Documenting and showcasing successful student-led and institution-supported interventions can facilitate knowledge sharing and encourage replication of effective practices across different regions.
The participation of students is expected to strengthen community engagement, institutional collaboration and youth involvement in rural water governance. It can also create opportunities for students to understand the functioning of public service delivery systems and the importance of sustainable management of water resources.
Overall, the initiative under JJM 2.0 represents a participatory governance approach, bringing together government institutions, educational establishments, students and local communities to support sustainable rural drinking water services and foster innovation in the water sector.
