AGARTALA: In a comprehensive evaluation of the on-ground execution of the Jal Jeevan Mission and Swachh Bharat Mission (Rural) schemes in Tripura, a delegation led by Dr. Jai Bhagwan and Dr. Sanjeev Agarwal, National WASH Experts from the Union Ministry of Water Power, embarked on a week-long visit to 16 panchayat areas in Bamutia, Mohanpur, Lefunga, and Belbari blocks from November 18 to November 24, 2023.
Accompanied by Tripura Government’s WSSO Officer Rajeev Majumder and other key officials, the delegation conducted in-depth interviews with local panchayat representatives, teachers, and project beneficiaries to assess the actual progress of the initiatives. This inclusive approach allowed them to gain valuable insights into the ground-level impact of the programs.
The team's focus extended to evaluating the quality of project implementation, including the training of five women representatives at the village level. Expressing contentment, the delegation commended the water quality tests conducted by FTK and applauded the efficient liquid waste management practices observed in the region.
Before concluding their visit, the delegation convened a crucial meeting with Abhishek Singh, Secretary of the PWD (DWS) Office. Recognizing the commendable implementation of water laboratories and projects at the state level, they designated 15 out of the 16 panchayats as Five-Star and the remaining one as Four-Star. This acknowledgment underscores Tripura's commitment to excellence in executing these vital projects.
Notably, Tripura currently boasts FHTC (Functional Household Tap Connection) connectivity to 72.21% of households in rural areas, surpassing the national average of 70.91%. In a proactive move to further strengthen project implementation, Secretary Abhishek Singh is set to convene a progress review meeting with all engineering officers of the department on November 27, 2023.
The Central Government’s delegation expressed confidence in Tripura’s commitment to advancing these crucial projects in the days to come. This success story exemplifies the state's dedication to rural development, setting a benchmark for others to emulate. The synergy between local initiatives and national missions paints a promising picture for the future of rural India.
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