Which of the following statements about the India-Nepal WASH MoU is/are correct?
1) It includes real-time glacial runoff tracking and privatized sanitation benchmarks.
2) It covers groundwater management, capacity building, and technology sharing.
Show answer & explanation
Correct answer: B
Explanation
Answer: Only Statement 2 is correct.
Explanation:
The WASH (Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene) agreement between India and Nepal primarily focuses on improving infrastructure related to water supply, sanitation, and hygiene.
Statement 1 is incorrect: This is because the primary objective of this agreement is not real-time tracking of glacial runoff. Although water resources are discussed, no technical provision such as "personalized sanitation standards" forms part of this specific MoU.
Statement 2 is correct: Under the WASH framework, India and Nepal collaborate on groundwater management, capacity building for the maintenance of water systems, and technology sharing for effective sanitation. India is committed to sharing the best practices from its 'Jal Jeevan Mission' and 'Swachh Bharat Abhiyan' with Nepal.
Additional Points:
Meaning of WASH: It is an acronym for Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene. It constitutes a key component of global health and development.
India-Nepal Development Partnership: India has funded numerous water supply and sanitation schemes under community development projects across various districts of Nepal.
Pancheshwar Multipurpose Project: This is a major water resource project between India and Nepal located on the Mahakali River, representing a significant aspect of water management.
Potential Exam Questions and Answers:
Question: Which organizations lead the WASH initiative at the global level?
Answer: UNICEF and the World Health Organization.
Question: Which major Indian scheme aims to provide functional tap water connections to every rural household?
Answer: Jal Jeevan Mission.