Community Participation Under MGNREGA Transforms Development in Pootadand Village

Water Conservation Structure Brings Remarkable Change in Villagers’ Lives**

Raipur, Nov 2025 : The community-led water conservation structure built under MGNREGA in Pootadand, a village of Gram Panchayat Musra in Manendragarh–Bharatpur–Chirmiri district, has brought remarkable changes to the lives of local residents. For years, farmers in this region depended solely on rain-fed agriculture, and due to water scarcity, rocky terrain, and irregular rainfall, their crop productivity was continuously affected. The uncertainty of farming had made sustaining livelihoods increasingly difficult.

Development Path Shaped by Community Demand and Gram Sabha Initiative

Responding to the persistent demands of farmers and villagers, the Gram Sabha prioritised the project and sent it for approval. After technical inspection and planning, Gram Panchayat Musra constructed the waterlogging/conservation structure at a cost of ₹8.49 lakh. This initiative opened new opportunities for water conservation in the village—water began reaching the fields, crop production improved, and a renewed sense of livelihood security developed among the villagers.

From Water Conservation to Prosperity—New Hope for Farmers, New Greenery in Fields

After the project’s completion, farmers of Pootadand were able to produce excellent paddy on nearly 7 acres of land for the first time. The stored water ensured timely irrigation for the Kharif crop, resulting in a significant increase in production. Earlier, farmers worried about saving their crops due to lack of irrigation; now, they are confidently preparing for the Rabi season as well. Agricultural activity in the village has increased, and farming has become more sustainable and profitable.

A Multi-Purpose Water Resource for the Community

The water conservation structure has benefited more than agriculture—livestock in the village now has access to drinking water, and the summer water crisis has reduced significantly. Moisture retention in the soil has also improved land quality. MGNREGA provided local employment during the construction phase, resulting in positive changes in agricultural productivity, livelihood security, and community cooperation.

Pootadand—A Model of Development and Self-Reliance

Community decision-making, collective effort, and effective implementation of schemes have proven that when a village takes charge of its own development, the outcomes are not only sustainable but long-lasting. The water conservation structure built under MGNREGA has today become a powerful example of advanced agriculture, improved irrigation, employment generation, and strengthened livelihoods in Pootadand.