Jal Jeevan Mission extended to 2028 to secure India’s water future: MoS Dr. Raj Bhushan Choudhary

: The Modi government has renewed its commitment of supplying India's 1.4 billion people with water requirements by extending the Jal Jeevan Mission to 2028, stated Minister of State for Jal Shakti Dr. Raj Bhushan Choudhary on Wednesday. The mission was given ₹67,000 crore by the government with a goal of providing clean drinking water to all rural households, increasing coverage of water, and achieving long-term water security.

Addressing the Climate Conference-2025 of Earthy Green Foundation at Constitution Club, Dr. Choudhary emphasized that extension of the mission would accelerate upgradation of water infrastructure, facilitate water conservation, and increase water resource management. "This mission is a landmark for a sustainable India," he insisted.

Dr. Choudhary thanked the Earthy Green Foundation for providing a platform that focused on environmental protection and efficient use of resources. "We as a nation are committed to protecting our environment for the coming generation," he added further.

Talking about the urgency of water security, Dr. Choudhary discussed how climate change impacted rural society most, particularly water scarcity. "By doing it at the grassroot level, we are ensuring water security to millions," he added.

He also brought the success of Jal Jeevan Mission into the open. In 2019, 17% of rural homes were connected with piped water, but now over 80% of rural homes have clean water at their doorsteps. This is being implemented up to 2028 and will keep up this success, providing clean water to rural homes.

The Minister also emphasized that this initiative aligns with India’s commitment to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. In line with India's climate action plan, Dr. Choudhary pointed out that Prime Minister Modi’s ambitious pledges at COP26—50% of energy needs from renewable sources by 2030 and net-zero carbon emissions by 2070—further strengthen the country’s resolve.

Dr. Choudhary highlighted the Ministry's long-term initiatives like rainwater harvesting, groundwater recharging, and wastewater treatment. "Our focus on water conservation, pollution control, and climate-resilient agriculture is critical for climate resilience in India," he added further.

The Minister was candid in stating that success of these programmes was because of the combined initiative of the government, private sector, research establishments, and NGOs. "Organisations like Earthy Green Foundation have a huge role to play in this endeavor," he continued further.

Dr. Raman Sharma, Principal Scientist CSIR-NEERI, presented his lecture on industrial wastewater management. He explained the significance of the CETP system for industrial estates to achieve discharge standards. Likewise, Noor Afshan Khan, Principal Scientist CSIR-NEERI, presented her lecture on the subject of the need to adopt water security for health, livelihood, and ecosystems.

The event also entailed the presentation of the "Climate Champion Awards" to the individuals and organizations that are leading the way in the fight against climate change, sustainability, and encouraging others to follow the same lead.

About Earthy Green Foundation
Earthy Green Foundation is a non-governmental organization dedicated to addressing the world climate crisis by working together as communities, business, and governments. The foundation was established in 2024 and its mission is to construct creative solutions to climate change, drive clean energy activities, and advocate for policies that enhance environmental sustainability and climate resilience.