JJM graft: After PM push, 7 states slap Rs 129 cr fine, Pg6

Key Highlights:

• Following PM Modi's directive, seven states imposed over Rs 129 crore in penalties and recoveries on contractors involved in Jal Jeevan Mission (JJM) irregularities.
• The highest penalty was imposed by Gujarat (Rs 120.65 crore), followed by Rajasthan (Rs 5.34 crore).
• Uttar Pradesh imposed "liquidated damages" in 113 out of 119 cases.
• Action has been taken against at least 596 officials, 822 contractors, and 152 Third Party Inspection Agencies (TAPIAs) across 15 states and UTs.
• Nine FIRs have been filed, leading to arrests of one former minister, 10 officials, and eight contractors.

Detailed Insights:

• The PM directed the Jal Shakti Ministry to take strict action against irregularities in the JJM, emphasizing the goal of providing water to every household.
• States were asked to address critical observations and implementation gaps based on on-ground verification reports by Central Nodal Officers (CNO).
• As of date, 32 states/UTs have submitted action reports, with 20 states reporting irregularities and action taken in 607 cases.
• The Centre has decided to change the funding mechanism for the JJM, moving to scheme-wise releases instead of lumpsum amounts.
• Bihar and Telangana provided tap water connections through their own schemes, with Bihar seeking central financial support for remaining households.
• 23 states have notified their operations and maintenance policy, while others like Haryana, J&K, and Telangana are yet to do so.

Key Concepts Involved:

• Jal Jeevan Mission (JJM): A government initiative to provide safe and functional tap water to every rural household by 2024.
• Central Nodal Officers (CNO): Officers appointed by the central government to oversee and verify the implementation of JJM at the state level.
• Third Party Inspection Agencies (TAPIAs): Independent agencies responsible for inspecting and ensuring the quality of work under the JJM.