Jal Jeevan Musiri Block, Trichy District, Tamilnadu India

Abstract

Development in the rural areas of India depends mainly on the supply and provision of basic infrastructure, mainly the availability of safe and secure drinking water. Not only does access to dependable water resources serve as a good measure for public health, it also goes a long way in promoting social equity, gender empowerment, and rural economic growth. The Jal Jeevan Mission (JJM), launched in 2019 by the Government of India, aims to provide Functional Household Tap Connections (FHTC) to every rural household. Access to safe and adequate drinking water is a fundamental driver of economic development and human welfare. Reliable water supply reduces health risks, improves sanitation, and enhances productivity. It also supports sustainable rural livelihoods by minimizing time spent on water collection. Thus, JJM represents a major public investment in rural infrastructure and welfare improvement. From an economic perspective, improved water access contributes to human capital formation and labor productivity. Reduced incidence of waterborne diseases lowers household medical expenditure and workdays lost due to illness. Women and children benefit significantly as time saved from fetching water can be redirected toward education and income-generating activities. These changes may lead to higher household income and poverty reduction. Therefore, evaluating the economic returns of JJM is essential for understanding its broader developmental impact. Musiri Block in Tiruchirappalli district provides an appropriate setting for a micro-level economic analysis of JJM. The region consists predominantly of rural households dependent on agriculture and allied activities. Assessing the economic outcomes of tap water connectivity in this block will offer valuable insights into cost-effectiveness and sustainability.