Japan's JR Pass Cost Soars 70%

09 Oct 2023 CW Team

In a surprising move, Japan has announced a substantial 70% hike in the cost of its famed Japan Rail (JR) Pass.

This pass has long been a favourite among tourists for its unlimited travel on Japan's extensive railway network, including the renowned Shinkansen or bullet trains.

The price increase, which comes into effect immediately, marks a significant change for travellers planning to explore the country.

The JR Pass was cherished for its affordability and convenience, offering unlimited travel for foreign visitors. However, with the recent hike, travellers will need to reconsider their budgets for exploring Japan's diverse regions.

The decision is attributed to several factors, including rising operational costs and the need for infrastructure improvements.

Japan's railway system is renowned for its efficiency and punctuality, and maintaining these high standards requires substantial investments. Despite the increase, the JR Pass remains a valuable option for tourists who plan to travel extensively within Japan.

It grants access to not only the iconic Shinkansen but also local and regional trains, making it an attractive choice for those eager to explore the country's rich culture, history, and natural beauty.

Infrastructure Urban

13 Mar 2026

Implementation Status of Jal Jeevan Mission

Since August 2019 the Government has implemented Jal Jeevan Mission to provide assured potable water through household tap connections in rural India. At the start of the mission only 32.3 million (mn) rural households, representing 16.7 per cent, were reported to have tap water connections. States and union territories have reported that 125.8 mn additional rural households have since been provided with tap connections. As a result, of about 193.6 mn rural households roughly 158.2 mn, or 81.71 per cent, are reported to have tap water supply at home.\n\nThe State, district and village level st..

Jal Jeevan Mission Reaches Eighty One Per Cent Rural Coverage

The Government reported substantial progress under the Jal Jeevan Mission, launched in August 2019 to provide tap water to every rural household. At launch only 32.3 million (mn) rural households had tap connections and states and Union territories reported provision of 125.8 mn additional households by March 2026. Consequently, out of about 193.6 mn rural households around 158.2 mn, or 81.71 per cent, are reported to have tap water at home. The Finance Minister announced extension of the mission until 2028 in the 2025-26 budget speech. The Swachh Bharat Mission Grameen, launched in October 20..

Empowering Local Governance for Sustainable Rural Water Supply

The Ministry of Jal Shakti has aligned the Jal Jeevan Mission (JJM) with the 73rd Amendment to strengthen village level planning and community ownership of water supply. Gram Panchayats, village water and sanitation committees and Pani Samitis are to plan, implement, manage and maintain piped water systems, with gram sabha processes formalising handover and oversight. Implementation support agencies including non government organisations, community based organisations and self help groups have been empanelled to train local committees and promote women participation. Under JJM, the department ..