Fri Mar 07 15:13:52 UTC 2025: ## Maharashtra’s Jalyukt Shivar Abhiyan: A Decade of Promises, Questions Remain

**Mumbai, March 7, 2025** – A decade after its launch, Maharashtra’s flagship drought-relief program, Jalyukt Shivar Abhiyan (JSA), is entering its third phase. Initially aiming to make the state drought-free by 2019, the scheme, spearheaded by Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, has faced significant criticism regarding its effectiveness and implementation.

Launched in 2014, JSA aimed to increase groundwater levels, expand irrigated areas, and improve drinking water access through the construction and restoration of water conservation structures. While over ₹9,731 crore was spent completing 22,581 micro-watershed works, the state still faced severe drought conditions in 2024, with 73% of the state experiencing drought-like conditions the previous year.

Critics point to several shortcomings. The Comptroller and Auditor General of India (CAG) report in 2020 highlighted that despite significant expenditure, the scheme had little impact on achieving water neutrality or increasing groundwater levels. The report cited issues with irregular monitoring, insufficient storage capacity, and a decrease in groundwater levels in many villages.

Further investigations revealed concerns over unscientific implementation, including the construction of farm ponds that actually accelerated groundwater depletion. Accusations of corruption and irregularities in fund allocation also surfaced, leading to inquiries and suspensions of officials.

While the state government highlights individual success stories of increased groundwater levels and crop production in some villages, reports of widespread drought and reliance on water tankers persist. The scheme’s discontinuation under the previous government and its subsequent relaunch under JSA 2.0 and now JSA 3.0, with a focus on repairing existing structures and expanding monitoring capabilities, have done little to quell concerns.

Experts emphasize the need for a more comprehensive and scientifically sound approach, including demand-side solutions such as shifting away from water-intensive crops and ensuring equitable water distribution. The ambitious Marathwada Water Grid project, while promising, also faces ecological concerns about potential harm to local ecosystems. JSA 3.0, slated for launch within the next five years, will be closely watched to determine if it can finally address Maharashtra’s persistent drought challenges.

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