Dr Syama Prasad Mookerjee National Institute of Water and Sanitation (SPM-NIWAS) and Arghyam have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to develop Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI) for the Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (WASH) sector. This partnership aligns with the Government of India’s vision to leverage technology in improving water and sanitation services across the country.

The collaboration aims to conceptualise, design, and implement a digital ecosystem to support flagship programmes such as the Jal Jeevan Mission (JJM) and Swachh Bharat Mission-Gramin (SBM-G). Under the agreement, SPM-NIWAS will spearhead implementation efforts, while Arghyam, as a key knowledge partner, will contribute expertise in technology-driven water governance. Key Focus Areas: • Developing open APIs and interoperable solutions to facilitate data-driven decision-making. • Strengthening state institutions for efficient operation and maintenance of water assets. • Building participatory digital platforms to promote sustainable water management. A Consultative Committee, comprising representatives from SPM-NIWAS, the Department of Drinking Water and Sanitation (DDWS), and Arghyam, will oversee the execution of this initiative. This partnership marks a significant step in India’s digital transformation in the WASH sector, ensuring improved accessibility, efficiency, and sustainability in water and sanitation services. By integrating advanced digital tools and innovative governance models, the initiative will contribute towards the equitable distribution of water resources, enhanced community participation, and long-term environmental sustainability.