The Odisha cabinet, chaired by Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi, has approved a new Operation and Maintenance (O&M) policy to enhance rural drinking water supply systems. This policy marks a shift from merely creating infrastructure to ensuring long-term sustainability and effective service delivery. Chief Secretary Anu Garg emphasized that the policy will operate within existing financial provisions, protecting prior investments while aiming to achieve the 'Har Ghar Jal' goal sustainably.

The O&M policy will establish a framework for uninterrupted water supply, adherence to quality standards, and systematic maintenance. It delineates roles among various implementing agencies, including the Rural Water Supply and Sanitation (RWSS) wing, district administrations, and village committees, promoting community ownership. Financial measures include structured user charges and dedicated O&M funds at the village level.

Technological enhancements such as SCADA and Internet of Things (IoT) platforms will aid in monitoring, alongside safeguards for maintenance and disaster preparedness. Over recent years, Odisha has completed 27 mega piped water supply projects and significantly increased the number of villages with functional household tap connections from 6,032 to over 21,000. The government has also penalized agencies for delays, imposing fines totaling nearly ₹1,120 crore for unsatisfactory progress.