Well Construction Becomes a Pathway to Progress for Maniram

Irrigation and Water Needs Resolved, Farmlands Flourish Again

Raipur, Dec 2025 : The Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Scheme (MGNREGA) has brought a new direction to the life of farmer Shri Maniram Sahu from Tekapar village in Khairagarh district. The construction of a well approved under MGNREGA has not only provided irrigation facilities to his fields but has also significantly strengthened his family’s financial condition.

When information about individual-benefit works under MGNREGA was shared in the Gram Sabha, Maniram expressed his wish to have a well constructed. Recognising his need, the Gram Panchayat completed the documentation process and issued administrative approval of ₹2.40 lakh in his name. Technical Assistant Shri Hemant Meshram provided the layout, and the work began under technical supervision.

Maniram’s family was entirely dependent on farming and daily wage labour. Arranging construction materials was a major challenge for them, but the Gram Panchayat supported him by providing the necessary materials. Despite several financial hardships, Maniram did not lose hope. He continued the work with determination and completed the construction of the well. The project also generated employment for villagers, and wages were transferred directly to their bank accounts. All required materials were used, and the work was completed systematically.

Once the well was ready, Maniram’s life saw a major positive transformation. Earlier, untimely rains and lack of irrigation would destroy his crops. Now, with regular irrigation using a diesel pump, the situation has changed entirely. Yields of wheat, paddy, soybean, and chickpea have increased. With rising income, it has become easier for the family to sustain themselves, and their standard of living has visibly improved. Maniram is now able to help irrigate nearby fields as well, which has further enhanced his respect in the village.

Maniram Sahu says that he comes from a simple family, where farming and wage labour were the only means of livelihood. The sanction of a well under MGNREGA has changed his circumstances, and today he is able to earn more than ever before. The ability to harvest crops year-round has secured his future and brought happiness to his household. He says the scheme has proven to be a new ray of hope for him.