(a) whether Government is aware of the drinking water crisis in several Statesincluding SanthalPargana Division of Jharkhand;
(b) if so, the steps taken to improve the situation in those States, State-wise; and
(c) the steps taken by the Government for improving the supply of drinking water in water scarce districts?
MINISTER OF STATE FOR DRINKING WATER AND SANITATION
(SHRI RAMESH CHANDAPPA JIGAJINAGI)
(a) to (c) No reference from Nodal Ministry (Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare) has been received during the year 2018 regarding drought in States including SanthalPargana Division of Jharkhand except a reference in respect of Uttar Pradesh for which a representative from this Ministry was sent for participation in the Inter-Ministerial Central Team (IMCT) for assessment of the situation in the State.
Rural drinking water supply is a state subject. This Ministry supplements the efforts of State Governments for improving coverage of rural drinking water supply by providing technical and financial assistance through centrally sponsoredNational Rural Drinking Water Programme (NRDWP)as per the budgetary allocation for the same.This Ministry has released Rs. 1969.38 crore to States till date during 2018-19 under NRDWP. States are empowered to improve the supply of drinking water in water scarce districts.Under Flexi funds of National Rural Drinking Water Programme (NRDWP), States may utilize upto 25% of these funds to take immediate relief measures for restoration of the drinking water supply affected areas to tackle drinking water crisis. States can also take a long term measures using NRDWP funds for providing permanent solution to the drinking water problem affected districts.