Neer Nirmal Pariyojana

Neer Nirmal Pariyojana

Neer Nirmal Pariyojana (NNP), also known as the Rural Water Supply and Sanitation Project, is an initiative by the Government of India aimed at improving the quality of rural water supply and sanitation services. The project is implemented with the support of the World Bank and focuses on enhancing the sustainability of water resources, improving service delivery, and promoting community participation.

Objectives

The primary objectives of Neer Nirmal Pariyojana are:

• To provide safe and sustainable drinking water to rural communities.
• To improve sanitation facilities and promote hygiene practices.
• To strengthen the capacity of local institutions in managing water supply and sanitation services.
• To ensure the sustainability of water resources through effective management and conservation practices.

Components

The project comprises several key components:

• **Water Supply Infrastructure**: Construction and rehabilitation of water supply systems, including piped water supply schemes, hand pumps, and rainwater harvesting structures.
• **Sanitation Facilities**: Construction of household and community toilets, promotion of solid waste management and liquid waste management practices.
• **Capacity Building**: Training and capacity-building programs for local institutions, including Panchayati Raj Institutions (PRIs) and Village Water and Sanitation Committees (VWSCs).
• **Community Participation**: Involvement of local communities in planning, implementation, and monitoring of water supply and sanitation projects.

Implementation

Neer Nirmal Pariyojana is implemented in selected states across India, including Assam, Bihar, Jharkhand, and Uttar Pradesh. The project follows a decentralized approach, with significant involvement of state and local governments.

Impact

The project has had a significant impact on improving the quality of life in rural areas by providing access to safe drinking water and improved sanitation facilities. It has also contributed to the reduction of waterborne diseases and promoted better hygiene practices among rural communities.

Challenges

Despite its successes, Neer Nirmal Pariyojana faces several challenges, including:

• Ensuring the sustainability of water resources in the face of climate change and groundwater depletion.
• Addressing the disparities in access to water and sanitation services among different regions and communities.
• Strengthening the capacity of local institutions to manage and maintain water supply and sanitation infrastructure.

See also

• Swachh Bharat Mission
• National Rural Drinking Water Programme
• Jal Jeevan Mission
• Water supply and sanitation in India