Creation of affordable materials for constant release of silver ions in water is one of the most promising ways to provide microbially safe drinking water for all. Combining the capacity of diverse nanocomposites to scavenge toxic species such as arsenic, lead, and other contaminants along with the above capability can result in affordable, all-inclusive drinking water purifiers that can function without electricity. Here we show that such constant release materials can be synthesized in a simple and effective fashion in water itself without the use of electrical power. These materials have been used to develop an affordable water purifier to deliver clean drinking water at US $2.5/y per family. We are in the process of implementing such solutions in arsenic affected areas of India. In about 18 months, we would have implemented our technology for solving the problems of 600,000 people. Experiences from these efforts will be discussed. © 2014 Taylor & Francis Group.