“Mor Gaon Mor Pani” Campaign Becomes a Historic Mass Movement for Water Conservation

Balrampur District Exceeds Target with Massive Public Participation, Earns Spot in Golden Book of World Records

Raipur : The ambitious “Mor Gaon Mor Pani” (My Village, My Water) campaign, launched under the leadership of Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai, has transformed into a historic mass movement for water conservation—not just within Chhattisgarh but on a national level.

As part of this initiative in Balrampur district, an extraordinary 1,22,455 soak pits were constructed with public participation and administrative support, earning the campaign a place in the Golden Book of World Records. This remarkable feat reflects the community’s active involvement and the leadership of local representatives in promoting sustainable water practices.

Balrampur Surpasses the Record

Originally, the district administration had set a target of constructing 20,000 soak pits in each of its six development blocks—a total of 1,20,000. However, thanks to the active involvement of citizens, self-help groups, beneficiaries, and elected representatives, the final tally surpassed expectations, leading to this global recognition.

A Model of Public Awareness during Water Conservation Week

During Water Conservation Week (June 30–July 7), various awareness events were held across villages. In Jatro Gram Panchayat, MP Chintamani Maharaj participated in voluntary labor (shramdaan) to spread the message. The concluding event took place in Putusura village, where District Panchayat CEO Smt. Nayantara Singh Tomar and Sonal Sharma, State Head of the Golden Book of World Records, constructed a soak pit at a local beneficiary’s home, setting an inspiring example.

Leadership and Community Cooperation: The Keys to Success

Under the guidance of Collector Rajendra Katara and CEO Nayantara Singh Tomar, the campaign reached every village. Field visits and consistent monitoring helped mobilize widespread community involvement.

Impact Reaches Remote and Tribal Regions

The campaign created significant awareness even in remote forest areas like Kusmi and Shankargarh, home to particularly vulnerable tribal groups. Activities such as wall painting, rallies, water pledges, community dialogues, plantation drives, and gram sabhas ensured inclusive participation. Under MGNREGA, structural works like ponds, check dams, and watershed projects were also implemented.

Beyond Water: Supporting Environment and Livelihoods

The campaign also included the plantation of over 16,000 saplings, distribution of seeds, promotion of kitchen gardens, multi-cropping, fish farming, and other agri-based activities. These efforts are helping improve rural livelihoods, making the campaign a holistic model for water conservation, environmental protection, and employment generation.