“My Village, My Water” Campaign Sets a Unique Example of Water Conservation in Dantewada

Dantewada’s ambitious initiative combines community action and technology to ensure sustainable water management and environmental protection

Raipur : Amid growing concerns about water scarcity in rural regions, Dantewada district in South Bastar, Chhattisgarh, has achieved a remarkable milestone through its “Mor Gaon Mor Pani” (My Village, My Water) mega campaign. This flagship initiative by the state government is aimed at promoting water conservation and rainwater harvesting, with a strong emphasis on community participation and sustainable development.

Under the guidance of the District Collector and CEO of the Zilla Panchayat, the campaign has adopted a modern GIS-based Ridge-to-Valley approach, leading to the identification of 2,965 water structures for implementation. The initiative strives to build awareness among villagers about the importance of water and actively involve them in groundwater recharge and preservation efforts.

Through the MGNREGA scheme, activities like gabion structures, contour trenches, stone check dams, and plantation drives are being implemented. These are laying a solid foundation for environmental protection and improved water management in the district.

Hundreds of Water Structures and Rapid Implementation

So far, 1,751 low-cost and 71 high-cost water structures have already been constructed under MGNREGA, with an expenditure of ₹450.04 lakh. Additionally, 402 new water structures are under construction and are scheduled to be completed within the next 15 days, just before the onset of the monsoon. These timely efforts aim to maximize rainwater harvesting and provide long-term benefits to the rural population.

Various structures like loose boulder check dams, earthen dams, gabion structures, ferrocement tanks, RCC systems, and drainage solutions are being developed. These not only aid in water conservation but also help prevent soil erosion and enhance agricultural productivity.

From Public Participation to a Mass Movement

Community engagement is the core strength of the campaign. Activities such as awareness rallies, training sessions, wall writings, and water pledges have been organized to promote the cause. Young volunteers have been mobilized as the “Jal Sena” (Water Army) to support construction efforts, while local rural workers have been employed under MGNREGA, boosting both the project’s pace and rural livelihoods.

Sustainable Livelihoods and Holistic Development

The campaign extends far beyond building structures. Its broader goals include improving soil health, promoting fish farming, encouraging kitchen gardening, multi-cropping, and preventing seasonal migration. These initiatives are designed to stabilize rural incomes and offer a long-term solution to the water crisis.

By combining technology, good governance, community mobilization, and timely execution, Dantewada is emerging as a model district for integrated and sustainable water management in rural India.