Kishori Amrit Sarovar Becomes a Source of Prosperity

Revival of a 20-Year-Old Pond Transforms Rural Life Through Irrigation and Fisheries

Raipur, Sept 2025 : In Kishori village, under the Sonhat Janpad Panchayat of Korea district, a 20-year-old pond has been rejuvenated under the Mission Amrit Sarovar scheme, bringing new direction to rural life. Once rendered useless, this pond has now become a vital resource for daily needs, drinking water for cattle, agriculture, and livelihood enhancement.

Revival of a 20-Year-Old Pond

Due to years of neglect, the pond in Kishori Gram Panchayat had become unusable. In the financial year 2022–23, it was revived under Mission Amrit Sarovar at a cost of around ₹10 lakh. Its water storage capacity was tripled to 10,000 cubic meters.

Irrigation Support to 18 Acres of Farmland

The rejuvenation of the pond has directly benefitted local farmers. Three acres each of land owned by farmers Manoj Raxel and Arvind Singh, as well as more than two acres each of land belonging to Surendra, Laxman, Virendra, and Anand, are now being irrigated. Additionally, about 1.25 acres of land owned by Jagbali Yadav is also being watered from the pond. Farmers said they are now able to grow both Kharif and Rabi crops, which has improved their income.

Women Earn ₹75,000 from Fisheries

For livelihood promotion, the Gram Panchayat leased the Amrit Sarovar to a local women’s self-help group. Members of the Jai Maa Mahila Self-Help Group earned ₹75,000 from fish sales last summer. Group president Mrs. Sonkunwar and secretary Mrs. Jirabai said they expect fish production worth nearly ₹3 lakh this year. This initiative is providing women with an additional source of income and better nutrition.

Symbol of Prosperity

Today, Kishori Gram Panchayat’s Amrit Sarovar is not just a tool for water conservation, but a symbol of farmers’ prosperity and women’s self-reliance. Villagers say that they can now see lasting positive changes in their lives.