“Where water runs, it has to be taught to walk. Where it starts walking, it has to be taught to crawl. Where it starts crawling, it has to be kept there. Wherever it stays, it has to be placed in the belly of the earth.”
– Maulik Sisodiya, Tarun Bharat Sangh
This profound philosophy, shared by Maulik Sisodiya during my recent field visit, encapsulates the essence of groundwater recharge In the arid and semi-arid landscape of Rajasthan, water scarcity has been a persistent challenge for years. The region is already experiencing the adverse effects of climate change, with higher average temperatures, erratic rainfall, and a rapidly depleting natural resource base. These climatic changes threaten the availability of surface and groundwater, degrade soil resources, reduce crop yields, and increase vulnerability to pest outbreaks. Farming and herding communities in Rajasthan are particularly vulnerable to these changes.
To address these pressing issues, the Tarun Bharat Sangh (TBS) and Regenerosity worked together to create sustainable, climate-resilient communities in five villages of the Dholpur district in Rajasthan. Dholpur, identified as one of the ‘Aspirational Districts’ by NITI Aayog, is among the most socially and economically challenged districts in the region. Both TBS and Regenerosity share a common philosophy that emphasizes the importance of traditional knowledge and locally-led mechanisms and that effective solutions must integrate water, agriculture, forests, pastures, and livestock management. By leveraging these interrelationships, the organizations aim to develop comprehensive, integrated solutions. The project aimed to build climate-resilient communities through community-driven water resource management. The primary objectives and activities of the project include empowering indigenous communities with the knowledge and skills needed for effective water conservation and management. Developing efficient models of irrigation with farmers to capture and utilize rainwater effectively and ensuring the project’s impact is measured efficiently to track progress and make necessary adjustments.
What amazed me was witnessing the simple, cost-effective solutions. TBS’s approach to tackling water scarcity revolves around simple, nature-based solutions. By adopting a unified perspective of water in all its forms—rainwater, soil moisture, ground, and surface water—they have created thousands of sustainable water management systems. Introducing modern agricultural technologies to farmers further enhances their capacity to sustain livelihoods through increased income.
Tarun Bharat Sangh & Regenerosity Impact
- 125 million litres p/yr increased rainwater storage capacity
- 30% increase in water availability for biodiversity and livelihoods
- 169 people attended Farmer’s Awareness Seminar to assist communities in water conserving
Speaking with the villagers was one of the most memorable moments for me. Seeing them empowered, taking charge of their water resources, and witnessing the positive changes in their lives was truly inspiring. There is nothing better than looking at these empowered individuals, who once struggled with water scarcity, now thriving due to their newfound knowledge and skills.
The impact of these efforts is visible and growing each day. Small steps by TBS and Regenerosity have transformed these villages into water-sustainable communities, despite being deprived of water for years. The multiplier effect of these initiatives continues to inspire and empower more communities to embrace sustainable water management practices. The migration of thousands of humans and animals has stopped, and accessibility to water for farming has curbed illegal mining.
Beyond human and agricultural benefits, these water conservation efforts have had a profound impact on the local ecology. Recharged groundwater levels have revitalized dried-up wells and streams, leading to the regeneration of flora and fauna in the region. Vegetation cover has increased, enhancing biodiversity and providing habitats for various species. Soil health has improved, reducing erosion and increasing its fertility. These ecological benefits create a more balanced and resilient environment, further supporting sustainable livelihoods and improving the overall quality of life in these communities.
I could see the transformation from barren land to lush greenery, even in Rajasthan’s harsh climate. In 45-47 degree temperatures, where water sources in the mountains have dried up, it was astounding to see water in these regions of Rajasthan. This stark contrast highlights the success of the water conservation initiatives and their ability to turn a once parched landscape into a thriving, green oasis. As I witnessed firsthand during my visit, the dedication and resilience of these communities, coupled with the support from TBS and Regenerosity, are driving a remarkable transformation. This journey towards water sustainability in Kiroli is a testament to the power of community-driven initiatives and the importance of integrating traditional knowledge with modern solutions. By teaching water to crawl and stay within the earth, we can ensure a sustainable future for generations to come.
Meet Tarun Bharat Sangh
To learn more about TBS or follow their work, visit www.tarunbharatsangh.in
