“To ensure effective implementation of policies addressing water, sanitation and hygiene needs the identification of the beneficiary segments is to be synchronized with the anticipated outcomes.” Examine the statement in the context of the WASH scheme.

(1) Health :- Curb water borne diseases like typhoid, diarrhoea → ensures health of children, maternal health.

(2) Women empowerment :- involved in fetching → JJM saves time & health effort → time used for productive activities → increasing female LFPR.

1. Women can spend more time on education

1. Higher nutrition security → curbing stunting (~35%), undernourishment (~35%) & wasting (~17%) → better sanitation & hygiene

Challenges in ensuring mission's success

1. Delay in timely implementation & fund utilization (Covid-19).

2. Higher cost in infrastructure (steel, cement, etc) post supply chain challenges after Russia-Ukraine conflict.

③ Ensuring quality of potable water.

④ Water scarcity in many regions can hamper water access.

⑤ Lack of community participation → for less resource utilisation.

Way forward

① Mapping of water-stressed regions → watershed approach instead of ground water.

② Quality testing in all regions.

③ Timely release of funds & periodic monitoring.

④ Involve women in deciding locations & designing local level scheme.