Raipur, April 3 (NationPress) The Korea district, also known as Koriya, in Chhattisgarh, has set an exemplary standard in the realm of water conservation, gaining significant recognition not only locally but also on a national scale.

Recently, Prime Minister Narendra Modi commended the district's innovative 'Five Percent Water Conservation Model' during his monthly radio address, 'Mann Ki Baat.'

Modi described this initiative as a 'living example' of how even minor efforts can lead to substantial improvements.

He praised the farmers and residents of Korea district for collaboratively addressing the water crisis and effectively executing their solution.

In the 'Five Percent Model', farmers committed 5 percent of their arable land to water conservation. They constructed small percolation pits within these areas to capture and allow rainwater to infiltrate the soil. This effort not only reduced water wastage but also significantly enhanced groundwater levels.

A remarkable aspect of this model is its complete reliance on public engagement.

Over 1,200 farmers in the district adopted this initiative, resulting in positive outcomes.

The local community embraced this cause as their own, with women leading the charge as 'Neer Nayikas' (water heroines) and youth participating as 'Jal Doots' (water messengers).

The planning was decentralized through Gram Sabhas (village assemblies), allowing local decision-making and ensuring effective execution.

The results of this initiative have been remarkably promising.

By 2025, approximately 2.8 million cubic meters of water were recharged into the groundwater, comparable to the capacity of hundreds of large ponds.

A report from the Chhattisgarh Water Resources Department highlights a historic increase of 5.41 meters in groundwater levels in the district.

Farmers benefiting from this initiative have shared their experiences with the media, explaining the transformative nature of the project.

A local farmer, Vishal Kumar Das, told IANS, 'This initiative enables the soil to retain moisture, replenishing water sources and effectively conserving water in the fields.'

Parameshwar Rajwade noted that the model provides benefits with each crop cycle, leading to significant improvements in farming practices compared to previous years.

District Panchayat CEO Ashutosh Chaturvedi stated that under Prime Minister Modi's leadership, initiatives like 'Catch the Rain,' various water conservation efforts, and campaigns promoting public involvement are being implemented nationwide, with the 'Mor Gaon Mor Pani' (My Village, My Water) campaign serving as a part of this broader movement.

He also mentioned the launch of the 'Awa Pani Jhonki' campaign in Korea district, which included the construction of soak pits in residential areas as well as in farmers' fields.

This initiative has contributed to a consistent increase in groundwater levels, and the efforts continue.