Scheme for fluoride, arsenic-free potable water being planned

The government is planning to start a nationwide mission to provide clean drinking water in areas where water is contaminated with fluoride and arsenic, an official said today.
"A national sub-mission to address fluoride and arsenic-affected habitations with additional central funding is being considered and the guidelines for its implementation are being developed in consultation with NITI Aayog and the states," said Drinking Water and Sanitation Secretary Parameswaran Iyer.
Stressing on the importance of providing sustainable water supply services in rural areas, he said the focus should be shifted from construction to delivery of services.
The focus should be on the outcomes, allocate resources strategically and prioritise water supply schemes which are at advanced stages of completion, Iyer said at the National Review Meeting of National Rural Drinking Water Programme.

It was attended by principal secretaries and chief engineers of state public health engineering departments.
Talking about Swachh Bharat Mission, Iyer asked the states to focus on achieving open defecation free status and emphasised the importance of convergence of schemes relating to sanitation and drinking water.