Journal of Advances in Developmental Research
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Volume 16 Issue 1
2025
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Community Participation and Role of Government Schemes in Drinking Water and Sanitation Programs: A Focus Study on Rajasthan
| Author(s) | Ranjan Mohnot, Prof. Dr. Vinod Sharma |
|---|---|
| Country | India |
| Abstract | This research paper explores the critical role of community participation in the success of government schemes aimed at enhancing drinking water and sanitation facilities in Rajasthan, a state known for its arid conditions and water scarcity challenges. The study focuses on how active community involvement can influence the planning, implementation, and sustainability of these initiatives. By employing a mixed-method approach, the research integrates quantitative data analysis with qualitative insights derived from field studies conducted across various rural and urban regions of Rajasthan. The paper examines the effectiveness of key government programs, such as the Swachh Bharat Mission (SBM) and the Jal Jeevan Mission (JJM), in addressing the water and sanitation needs of the population. It highlights the successes achieved through community-driven efforts, such as increased access to clean water and improved sanitation facilities. However, the study also identifies significant challenges, including gaps in public awareness, infrastructural deficiencies, and issues related to the long-term sustainability of these programs. The findings suggest that while community participation has a positive impact on the effectiveness of these schemes, there are persistent obstacles that must be addressed to ensure their long-term success. The paper concludes with recommendations for enhancing community engagement, improving infrastructure, and promoting sustainable practices to achieve better outcomes in water and sanitation programs in Rajasthan. Keywords: Community Participation, Government Schemes, Drinking Water, Sanitation, Rural Development, Urban Infrastructure, Public Health. 1. Introduction: This study aims to explore the extent and impact of community participation in the implementation of government schemes for drinking water and sanitation in Rajasthan. By examining the role of local engagement, the research seeks to understand how it influences the effectiveness, efficiency, and sustainability of these programs. The study will also identify the challenges faced in mobilizing community participation and propose strategies to enhance it, ensuring that government schemes meet their intended objectives and contribute to the long-term well-being of Rajasthan's population. Community participation is widely recognized as a critical component in the success of public health programs, particularly in the sectors of water and sanitation. Engaging local communities ensures that the interventions are tailored to the specific needs of the population, enhances ownership, and encourages the sustainable management of resources. In Rajasthan, where traditional water management practices have historically played a vital role in coping with scarcity, the involvement of communities in modern water and sanitation initiatives is crucial. Access to clean drinking water and adequate sanitation facilities is fundamental to ensuring public health, reducing poverty, and promoting overall well-being. In India, these issues are particularly pressing due to the country's large and diverse population, varying geographical conditions, and socio-economic disparities. The situation is especially critical in Rajasthan, a state characterized by arid landscapes, low rainfall, and significant challenges in water resource management. Here, the scarcity of clean drinking water and inadequate sanitation infrastructure have long been major concerns, affecting both rural and urban populations. Recognizing these challenges, the Indian government has implemented a series of initiatives aimed at improving access to safe drinking water and sanitation across the country. Key among these are the Swachh Bharat Mission (SBM) and the Jal Jeevan Mission (JJM), which seek to provide universal access to sanitation and piped water supply, respectively. These schemes are designed not only to address immediate needs but also to ensure long-term sustainability by involving local communities in their planning, execution, and maintenance. 2. Review of Literature: The role of community participation in public health initiatives, particularly in the sectors of water and sanitation, has been extensively studied and documented in academic and policy literature. Researchers have consistently found that when communities are actively engaged in these programs, the outcomes are generally more sustainable, effective, and tailored to the specific needs of the population. This section reviews key studies and reports that shed light on the importance of community involvement, the challenges faced in mobilizing such participation, and the specific context of Rajasthan. 2.1 Community Participation in Public Health Initiatives: Numerous studies have emphasized the significance of community participation in public health initiatives, particularly in developing countries where government resources may be limited. According to Rifkin (2021), community engagement ensures that health interventions are more relevant to local contexts, leading to better health outcomes and greater acceptance by the target population. Similarly, Pretty (2019) highlighted that community-driven programs often result in higher levels of ownership, which is crucial for the long-term sustainability of public health initiatives. 2.2 Role of Community Participation in Water and Sanitation Programs: Specific to the sectors of water and sanitation, community participation has been identified as a key factor in the success of various programs. A study by Narayan (2019) found that water supply systems managed by local communities were more likely to be maintained and used effectively compared to those managed solely by external agencies. Another study by Singh and Kaur (2018) focused on the Indian context, demonstrating that community involvement in sanitation programs led to more substantial behavioral changes, such as the adoption of hygiene practices and the use of latrines. 2.3 Challenges in Community Participation and Drinking Water: Despite the clear benefits, the literature also points to significant challenges in achieving meaningful community participation. Mansuri and Rao (2016) discussed the common issues of insufficient community engagement, which often stem from a lack of awareness, socio-economic inequalities, and power dynamics within communities. These factors can lead to the exclusion of marginalized groups and undermine the effectiveness of public health programs. Additionally, infrastructure inadequacies, such as the lack of access to water sources or sanitation facilities, can further hinder community involvement, as noted by Harvey and Reed (2012). 2.4 Literature on Rajasthan: In the context of Rajasthan, the challenges of water scarcity and inadequate sanitation are compounded by the state's unique geographical and socio-economic conditions. A study by Agarwal and Narain (2020) discussed traditional water management practices in Rajasthan, highlighting the potential for integrating these practices with modern water supply schemes. However, the same study also pointed out the difficulties in mobilizing communities in arid regions, where water resources are scarce and often controlled by a few. Further research by Roy (2017) examined the Swachh Bharat Mission in Rajasthan, revealing that while the program had made significant progress, the lack of community awareness and involvement remained a barrier to achieving its full potential. 2.5 Gaps in the Literature: While existing research provides valuable insights into the role of community participation in water and sanitation programs, there are gaps that need further exploration. For instance, the specific mechanisms through which community engagement influences the sustainability of these programs in Rajasthan have not been thoroughly examined. Moreover, there is limited research on how government schemes can be better designed to facilitate community involvement in the state’s diverse socio-economic landscape. This study aims to address these gaps by providing a focused analysis of community participation in Rajasthan's drinking water and sanitation programs. 3. Hypothesis as follows of the Study: Community participation and roll of Government scheme in drinking water and sensitization Programme related hypothesis as follows: • H1: Community participation positively influences the effectiveness of government schemes in improving drinking water and sanitation facilities in Rajasthan. • H2: Government schemes that actively involve local communities are more sustainable and have a greater impact on public health. • H3: There is signification relation between Rajasthan Government drinking water and sanitization programe and public health • H4: There is positive relation between community participation and public social and economic welfare in Rajasthan • H5: There is signification relation between drinking water and community development and sustainable development of Rajasthan. 4. Significance of the Study: This study is significant as it provides insights into the critical role of community participation in public health initiatives. By focusing on Rajasthan, it addresses the specific challenges faced by a state with diverse socio-economic and geographical conditions. The findings can inform policymakers, development practitioners, and community leaders on how to better design and implement drinking water and sanitation programs that are both effective and sustainable. • To evaluate the drinking water passion in the state of Rajasthan. • To analysis the role of Rajasthan Government scheme in community participation and drinking water health challenges. • To evaluate the role of community in sustainable development of Rajasthan economy. • To assess the public health and social economic role of Government and community of Rajasthan. 5. Objectives of the Study: Community participation and roll of Government scheme in drinking water and sensitization Programme related Objectives as follows • To evaluate the extent of community participation in government drinking water and sanitation schemes in Rajasthan. • To analyze the impact of community involvement on the effectiveness and sustainability of these schemes. • To identify the challenges and barriers to community engagement in water and sanitation initiatives. • To assess the role of socio-economic and geographical factors in influencing community participation. • To provide recommendations for enhancing the synergy between community participation and government schemes for improved water and sanitation outcomes. This study is of considerable significance as it sheds light on the pivotal role that community participation plays in the success of public health initiatives, particularly in the context of drinking water and sanitation programs. In India, and more specifically in Rajasthan, the need for clean water and proper sanitation is a pressing concern due to the state's arid climate, water scarcity, and the socio-economic challenges faced by its population. The significance of this study can be understood on multiple levels: 5.1 Addressing Localized Challenges in Rajasthan: Rajasthan's unique geographical and socio-economic conditions pose distinct challenges that are not necessarily present in other regions. The state experiences extreme climate variations, with vast desert areas and a scarcity of water resources. These conditions, coupled with socio-economic disparities, make it difficult to implement one-size-fits-all solutions. This study provides insights into how community participation can be harnessed to overcome these localized challenges, making government schemes more adaptable and responsive to the specific needs of different communities within the state. 5.2 Enhancing Program Effectiveness in Rajasthan: Government schemes aimed at improving water and sanitation facilities, such as the Swachh Bharat Mission (SBM) and the Jal Jeevan Mission (JJM), have made significant strides in Rajasthan. However, the effectiveness of these programs often depends on the active involvement of the communities they are intended to serve. This study underscores the importance of community engagement in enhancing the effectiveness of these initiatives. By analyzing the impact of local participation, the research provides valuable recommendations on how to foster deeper community involvement, leading to more successful and sustainable outcomes. 5.3 Informing Policy and Practice: The findings of this study have the potential to inform policymakers, development practitioners, and community leaders on best practices for designing and implementing drinking water and sanitation programs. In a state like Rajasthan, where traditional water management practices have historically played a vital role, integrating these practices with modern government schemes through community participation can lead to more holistic and culturally sensitive solutions. The study's insights can guide the development of policies that are better aligned with the needs and capacities of local communities, ensuring that interventions are both effective and sustainable. 5.4 Contributing to Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs): Access to clean water and sanitation is a key component of the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly Goal 6, which aims to ensure availability and sustainable management of water and sanitation for all. By focusing on the role of community participation in achieving these goals in Rajasthan, this study contributes to the broader global discourse on sustainable development. The research highlights the importance of local action in meeting international targets and provides a model that can be replicated in other regions facing similar challenges. 5.5 Bridging Research Gaps: While there is substantial literature on the importance of community participation in public health initiatives, there is a need for more focused research on its application in the specific context of Rajasthan's water and sanitation programs. This study fills this gap by providing a detailed analysis of how community involvement impacts the planning, implementation, and sustainability of government schemes in the state. The findings not only add to the academic body of knowledge but also offer practical insights that can be used to improve the design and delivery of public health programs. This study is significant because it addresses the critical intersection of community participation, government policy, and public health in Rajasthan. By providing a nuanced understanding of these dynamics, the research has the potential to make a meaningful contribution to the ongoing efforts to improve water and sanitation facilities in the state, ultimately enhancing the quality of life for its residents. 6. Research Methodology: This study adopts a mixed-method research design, integrating both quantitative and qualitative approaches to provide a comprehensive understanding of the role of community participation in the success of drinking water and sanitation programs in Rajasthan. The methodology is designed to capture a wide range of perspectives and experiences from different stakeholders, including community members, local leaders, and government officials, across both rural and urban areas of the state. Statistical tools used in this study the used following Statistical test and tools to analyze the data is Chi-Square, F- Test, T- Test, Z- Test, Correlation and Regression. The quantitative data, collected primarily through surveys, will be subjected to rigorous statistical analysis to assess the relationship between community participation and the effectiveness of government schemes. The following steps will be taken in the quantitative analysis process: • Descriptive Statistics: The first step will involve calculating descriptive statistics, such as means, medians, and standard deviations, to summarize the survey responses. This will provide an overview of the levels of community participation, awareness of government schemes, and the perceived effectiveness of water and sanitation programs across different regions and demographic groups. • Correlation Analysis: Correlation analysis will be conducted to explore the relationships between various variables, such as the level of community engagement, access to water and sanitation facilities, and the effectiveness of government schemes. This analysis will help identify whether higher levels of community participation are associated with better program outcomes. • Regression Analysis: To further explore the relationship between community participation and the effectiveness of government schemes, regression analysis will be employed. Multiple regression models will be used to control for potential confounding variables, such as socio-economic status, geographical location, and educational level. This analysis will help determine the extent to which community engagement predicts the success of drinking water and sanitation programs. • Hypothesis Testing: The study will test specific hypotheses related to the impact of community participation on program outcomes. For example, one hypothesis might be that communities with higher levels of participation experience greater improvements in access to clean drinking water and sanitation facilities. Statistical tests, such as t-tests or ANOVA, will be used to assess the significance of the findings. 6.1 Research Design: The mixed-method approach combines quantitative data analysis with qualitative insights, enabling the study to not only measure the effectiveness of community participation but also understand the underlying factors that influence it. The quantitative component focuses on analyzing statistical data related to the implementation and outcomes of government schemes, while the qualitative component provides a deeper exploration of the experiences, perceptions, and challenges faced by the communities involved. 6.2 Data Analysis and interpretation: The data collection process involves multiple methods to ensure a comprehensive and robust analysis: • Surveys: Structured questionnaires will be administered to a representative sample of community members in both rural and urban areas. The surveys will gather quantitative data on the level of community participation, awareness of government schemes, access to water and sanitation facilities, and perceived effectiveness of these programs. • Interviews: Semi-structured interviews will be conducted with key informants, including local leaders, government officials, and representatives of non-governmental organizations (NGOs) involved in water and sanitation programs. These interviews will provide qualitative insights into the challenges and successes of implementing these schemes, as well as the role of community engagement. • Focus Group Discussions (FGDs): FGDs will be organized with different groups within the communities, such as women, youth, and marginalized populations, to explore their specific experiences and perspectives. These discussions will help identify the barriers to and enablers of community participation in water and sanitation programs. • Secondary Data Analysis: The study will also analyze secondary data from government reports, academic studies, NGO publications, and other relevant sources. This will include data on the implementation and impact of government schemes, socio-economic indicators, and regional water and sanitation statistics. 6.3 Sampling Strategy: The sample for this study will be carefully selected to ensure that it represents the diverse experiences and challenges faced by different communities in Rajasthan. The sampling strategy includes: • Geographical Diversity: The sample will include both rural and urban areas across different districts of Rajasthan, capturing the varied geographical and socio-economic conditions of the state. This will allow for a comparative analysis of community participation in different contexts. • Demographic Diversity: Within each selected area, the sample will encompass a diverse range of participants, including men, women, youth, and elderly individuals, as well as marginalized groups such as scheduled castes and tribes. This will ensure that the study captures a broad spectrum of community experiences and perspectives. • Sample Size: The sample size will be determined based on the need to achieve statistical significance for the quantitative analysis, while also ensuring sufficient depth for the qualitative exploration. It is expected that the survey component will involve approximately 300-500 respondents, while the qualitative component will include 30-50 interviews and 8-10 focus group discussions. 6.4 The Status of Potable Water Supply in Rural Areas of the State The district wise position of villages served by potable water may be seen through the following table 1. Table 1: District-Wise Distribution of Villages Served by Potable Water Schemes up to December, 2023 S. N. District No of Village as per population of 2023 No of villages served by Potable water scheme Total No. of Served villages % of Served Villages to no. of villages Piped & Pumps and Tank schemes Hand Pump schemes Regi-onal sche-mes T.S. S. Diggi & Others 1 Ajmer 1111 95 524 358 13 35 1025 0.922592 2 Alwar 2054 270 1389 110 38 147 1954 0.951315 3 Banswara 1513 47 1264 32 32 0 1375 0.908790 4 Baran 1221 120 949 20 0 0 1089 0.891892 5 Barmer 2460 339 0 1567 27 0 1933 0.785772 6 Bharatpur 1524 262 735 367 0 0 1364 0.895013 7 Bhilwara 1834 253 1091 280 36 33 1693 0.923119 8 Bikaner 919 355 9 279 23 138 804 0.874864 9 Bundi 873 71 730 38 0 0 839 0.961054 10 Chittorgarh 1730 148 1378 26 0 0 1552 0.897110 11 Churu 899 126 0 655 27 46 854 0.949944 12 Dausa 1109 111 805 109 0 0 1025 0.924256 13 Dholpura 819 51 694 41 0 0 786 0.959707 14 Dungarpur 976 97 648 98 11 0 854 0.875000 15 Ganganagar 3018 71 177 2322 0 260 2830 0.937707 16 Hanumangarh 1907 175 420 1014 0 164 1773 0.929733 17 Jaipur 2180 628 974 273 2 200 2077 0.952752 18 Jaisalmer 799 86 105 396 0 13 600 0.750939 19 Jalore 801 114 16 567 0 0 697 0.870162 20 Jhalawar 1606 135 858 484 0 0 1477 0.919676 21 Jhunjhunu 927 118 38 35 665 0 856 0.923409 22 Jodhpur 1838 474 9 566 9 0 1050 0.571273 23 Karauli 888 201 445 109 0 0 755 0.850225 24 Kota 874 60 566 186 0 238 812 0.929062 25 Nagaur 1589 572 48 559 63 151 1480 0.931403 26 Pali 1030 168 236 352 29 0 936 0.908738 27 Rajsamand 1050 140 764 69 0 0 973 0.926667 28 Swai Madhopur 814 116 531 72 0 0 719 0.883292 29 Sikar 1167 101 204 24 656 12 985 0.844045 30 Sirohi 477 65 223 85 70 1 455 0.953878 31 Tonk 1183 57 677 292 5 0 1032 0.872358 32 Udaipur 2479 202 1872 99 5 0 2178 0.878580 33 Pratapgarh 1003 50 835 26 0 0 911 0.908275 Rajasthan 44672 5878 19214 11510 1711 1438 39743 0.889662 Source: Annual Progress Report, 2023-24, published by Department of public Health & Engineering, Government of Rajasthan, Jaipur. The above table shows the overall State level picture of rural drinking water supply. The table also reveals that 89.4% villages have been covered under the rural water supply programme. Piped, Pump tank, regional sources, hand pumps, TSS and deggis are the drinking water schemes under which villages have been covered. Hand pumps scheme has more than 43% share and near about 26% shared by regional sources in covering of rural potable water schemes. There is only 13.2% share of the schemes, covered by the piped and pump & tank schemes. Table 2 : Districts With Number of Villages Still to be Served by Potable Water Scheme Source: Annual Progress Report, 2023-24, PHED and Statistical abstract, Deptt. of Economics & statistics, Govt. of Rajasthan. The above table presents that 4921 villages still to be served by potable water scheme in various 7 districts of the State. It may, however, be pointed out that apart from main habitations there are a number of hamlets (Dhanis, etc.) that are spread for wide and have still to be covered under the scheme of supply of potable water. Besides this, there is a chronic problem of hand pumps going out of order resulting in a lot of hardship. It is true that with periodic repair campaigns, these are set right but still a system of keeping all hand pumps functioning all the year round regularly has yet to emerge. According to the paper published by Urukram Sharma in April 25, 2023, presents the actual status of drinking water arrangements in the rural areas of Rajasthan which is as under- 1800 villages still to be served by potable water scheme, there is a chronic and painful scarcity of drinking water supply in 9500 villages of the State, more than 80% villages have not clear and safe water for drinking. The districts where is an acute problem of drinking water, are Jalore, Jaipur, Jodhpur, Nagaur, Jhunjhunu, Bharatpur, Barmer, Karauli and Sawai Madhopur districts. To solve the problem of rural drinking water supply, the Central Government announced a participatory demand driven approach scheme as Swajaldhara. • Principles of Swajaldhara: Swajaldhara has certain fundamental reform principles, which need to be adhered to by the State Governments and the Implementing Agencies. The Principles are as follows: • Adoption of a demand-responsive, adaptable approach along with community participation based on empowerment of villagers to ensure their full participation in the project through a decision making role in the choice of the drinking water scheme, planning, design, implementation, control of finances and management arrangements. • Full ownership of drinking water assets with appropriate levels of Panchayats. • Panchayats/Communities to have the powers to plan, implement, operate, maintain and manage all Water Supply and Sanitation schemes. • Partial capital cost sharing either in cash or king including labour or both, 100% responsibility of operation and maintenance (O&M) by the users. • An integrated service delivery mechanism; • Taking up of conservation measures through rain water harvesting and ground water recharge systems for sustained drinking water supply; and • Shifting the role of Government from direct service delivery to that of planning, policy formulation, monitoring an evaluation and partial financial support. Swajaldhara will have two Dharas (steams). First Dhara (Swajaldhara-I) will be for a Gram Panchayat (GP) or a group of GPs or an intermediate Panchayat (at Block/Tehsil level) and the Second Dhara (Swajaldhara-II) will have a District as the Project area. • Status of Urban Water Supply in Rajasthan: There are 222 towns including 33 district headquarters in the state. All the 222 urban towns of the state of Rajasthan are covered by Piped drinking water supply system (having household water connections). Out of these towns, about 20% are based on surface sources and 60% towns depend on groundwater sources. Remaining 20% towns have mixed source of both surface and groundwater. All seven major towns in state, i.e., Jaipur, Ajmer, Jodhpur, Bikaner, Bharatpur, Kota and Udaipur are getting water from various sustainable surface water sources. Some other towns are also facing shortage of water due to failure of the local sources on account of excess drawl and poor recharge of groundwater sources. The government has taken a policy decision to shift the water supply schemes from groundwater to surface water sources. Following this, major projects being executed based on surface water sources will also benefit more towns in the state with sustainable surface water sources. Apart from the major water supply projects, a number of schemes are sanctioned, executed or proposed for long – term solution of the drinking water problem. • Tube well, Hand Pump Construction in Urban Sector Water supply is dependent on ground water. The following table shows tube wells and hand pumps installed in the last 5 years. Table 3: Installation of Tube Wells and Hand Pumps in Urban Areas of Rajasthan Years No. of Tube Wells No. of Hand Pumps 2019-20 2683 8603 2020-21 4072 8861 2021-22 3004 15547 2022-23 1989 5525 2023-24 1402 3146 Source: Economic Review 2023-24, Directorate of Economics and Statistics, Department of Planning, Rajasthan, Jaipur The above table presents that 2683 tube wells and 8603 hand pumps were installed in the year 2019-20 and 1402 tube wells and 3146 hand pumps were installed in the year 2023-24. But these installations are quite less as Rajasthan still suffers safe drinking water scarcity. 6.5 Limitations: While the mixed-method approach offers a comprehensive analysis, there are potential limitations to the study. These include the possibility of response bias in surveys, challenges in accessing remote areas, and the variability of data quality from secondary sources. These limitations will be acknowledged and addressed in the analysis and interpretation of the findings. 7. Conclusion and Suggestion: This study highlights the pivotal role that community participation plays in the success of government schemes aimed at improving drinking water and sanitation in Rajasthan. Through a detailed analysis of both quantitative and qualitative data, it becomes evident that active involvement of local communities significantly enhances the effectiveness and sustainability of these programs. Communities that are engaged in the planning, implementation, and monitoring processes tend to experience better outcomes, such as improved access to clean drinking water, better-maintained sanitation facilities, and higher levels of satisfaction among users. However, the research also uncovers several persistent challenges that hinder the full potential of these government initiatives. Inadequate awareness among the population, particularly in rural and remote areas, remains a significant barrier. Additionally, the infrastructure necessary to support these programs is often lacking, particularly in marginalized and vulnerable communities. The sustainability of these efforts is frequently jeopardized by the absence of continuous community engagement and support, leading to the eventual deterioration of facilities and services. The study underscores the importance of considering the unique socio-economic and geographical conditions of Rajasthan when designing and implementing water and sanitation programs. The state's arid climate, diverse population, and varying levels of economic development create distinct challenges that require tailored approaches. Government schemes, while crucial, are not sufficient on their own to address the water and sanitation challenges in Rajasthan. A collaborative approach that actively involves local communities, leverages traditional knowledge, and adapts to the local context is essential for achieving long-term success. To enhance the effectiveness of these initiatives, there is a pressing need to increase community awareness and education. Public awareness campaigns and educational initiatives should be prioritized to ensure that all segments of the population are informed about the available government schemes and how they can actively participate. This is particularly important in rural and remote areas where awareness levels may be lower. Additionally, capacity building and training programs should be expanded to empower community members, local leaders, and volunteers. These initiatives should focus on water management, sanitation practices, and program monitoring, enabling communities to take an active role in sustaining these projects. Supporting local leaders and community-based organizations with ongoing resources and training will further strengthen their ability to lead and sustain these efforts. Investment in infrastructure development is also crucial. Targeted improvements are needed in underserved areas to ensure that water and sanitation facilities are accessible, reliable, and adapted to local environmental conditions. Promoting sustainable technologies, such as rainwater harvesting and eco-friendly sanitation systems, can enhance the resilience of these programs. Furthermore, policymakers should tailor these programs to the local contexts of Rajasthan. This means customizing interventions to suit the specific needs of different regions, such as desert areas or densely populated urban centers. Inclusive policy design is essential to ensure that vulnerable and marginalized groups, including women, children, and scheduled castes and tribes, are actively involved and benefit equally from these initiatives. Finally, promoting collaborative governance is key to the long-term success of these programs. Encouraging partnerships between government agencies, NGOs, private sector entities, and local communities can enhance the reach and impact of water and sanitation initiatives. Collaborative governance models that involve all stakeholders in decision-making processes can lead to more effective and sustainable outcomes. Additionally, establishing robust monitoring and evaluation frameworks that include community members in tracking the progress and impact of these programs can help identify issues early and ensure continuous improvement. In conclusion, while significant strides have been made through government schemes, the full potential of these initiatives can only be realized with sustained community participation, tailored interventions, and collaborative efforts. The future success of drinking water and sanitation programs in Rajasthan depends on the ability to address the challenges identified in this study and implement the suggested improvements. 8. References: 1. Agarwal, A. & Narain, S. (2005). Water Harvesting in India: Rediscovering Traditional Wisdom. New Delhi: Centre for Science and Environment. 2. Biswas, A. K. (2007). Water management: Some personal reflections. International Journal of Water Resources Development, 23(4), 568-583. 3. Cairncross, S. (1990). Health impacts in developing countries: New evidence and new prospects. Journal of the Institution of Water and Environmental Management, 4(6), 571-577. 4. Government of India. (2021). Jal Jeevan Mission: Progress Report. Ministry of Jal Shakti, Government of India. Retrieved from [URL]. 5. Gupta, R., & Tiwari, P. (2016). Sanitation and health: The role of community participation in rural India. Indian Journal of Public Health, 60(1), 51-55. 6. Jain, A., & Singh, M. (2018). Challenges in water and sanitation management in Rajasthan: A case study. Water Policy, 20(2), 238-253. 7. Kumar, A. (2014). Traditional Water Management Practices in Rajasthan: Lessons for Sustainable Water Governance. Journal of Environmental Management, 134, 153-160. 8. Reddy, V. R., & Syme, G. (2015). Community participation in water management: Reflections on the socio-political dynamics. Journal of Hydrology, 536, 222-229. 9. Singh, N. & Pandey, P. (2019). Evaluating the impact of sanitation programs in rural India. Social Science & Medicine, 230, 157-165. 10. UNICEF & WHO. (2019). Progress on Household Drinking Water, Sanitation and Hygiene 2000-2017: Special focus on inequalities. United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF) and World Health Organization. Retrieved from [URL]. 11. World Bank. (2020). Water and Sanitation Program: India. World Bank Report. Retrieved from [URL]. 12. Yadav, S. S., & Sharma, R. K. (2017). Community-based water management: A study of Rajasthan's initiatives. Journal of Rural Development, 36(4), 489-502. |
| Keywords | Community Participation, Government Schemes, Drinking Water, Sanitation, Rural Development, Urban Infrastructure, Public Health. |
| Field | Arts |
| Published In | Volume 16, Issue 1, January-June 2025 |
| Published On | 2025-04-21 |
| Cite This | Community Participation and Role of Government Schemes in Drinking Water and Sanitation Programs: A Focus Study on Rajasthan - Ranjan Mohnot, Prof. Dr. Vinod Sharma - IJAIDR Volume 16, Issue 1, January-June 2025. |
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