Support from the Central Government Boosts ‘Jal Sahelis’ in Combatting Water Shortage in Tikamgarh
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Synopsis
A group of women known as ‘Jal Sahelis’ in Tikamgarh, Madhya Pradesh, are tackling water scarcity through community efforts, receiving significant support from the government.
Key Takeaways
- Jal Sahelis have revived over 1,000 water bodies in Bundelkhand.
- Over 400,000 people across 250 villages have benefited.
- Government recognition has motivated these women.
- The initiative started in 2011 and continues to grow.
- Water conservation efforts include deepening wells and restoring ponds.
Tikamgarh (Madhya Pradesh), March 22 (NationPress) A small group of women from Madhya Pradesh's Tikamgarh have made an extraordinary pledge. After years of battling water scarcity in the mountainous region, they are determined to shield future generations from this hardship. The ‘Jal Sahelis’ (Water Friends) of the area have garnered significant attention, and their endeavors have been recognized and endorsed by the government, providing them with crucial motivation to progress.
With assistance from the social service organization Parmarth, these women established a collective known as ‘Jal Saheli’ (Water Friend). Every member of this group is referred to as a Jal Saheli, and they diligently work within their villages to combat water scarcity. The Jal Sahelis are involved in water conservation, enhancing wells, restoring ancient ponds, constructing small dams, and fixing hand pumps. They also collaborate with government officials to boost community involvement and present petitions.
The Parmarth organization has created a robust network of over 2,000 Jal Sahelis throughout the Bundelkhand region. Through this ‘Jal Saheli’ model, they have effectively revived historic Chandela-era ponds. These village women often demonstrate greater efficacy than their male counterparts.
The Jal Sahelis assert that in areas where their groups have been established, development is clearly visible. Encroachments on water sources have been eliminated, access to drinking water has improved, and irrigation issues for agriculture have diminished.
The Jal Sahelis reported that they have rejuvenated over 1,000 rivers and ponds in the Bundelkhand region. This initiative has positively impacted over 400,000 individuals across 250 villages in Tikamgarh and Niwari. They have been honored with over 100 awards from the President and the Chief Minister for their contributions. After organizing village meetings and Panchayats to promote awareness, they have successfully garnered support. Receiving recognition from the government has further motivated them. Currently, more than 2,000 Jal Sahelis are active in 6-7 districts across Madhya Pradesh and Uttar Pradesh.
One Jal Saheli stated: "We all collaborated to dig a well. Now, we don’t encounter any water issues."
Another Jal Saheli, Rani Bilgaiya, shared, "Our initiative commenced in 2011. We educated the community about water conservation and the importance of saving water. Supportive individuals assisted us, and gradually, our group expanded. We will persist in this work in the future."
A different Jal Saheli remarked: "Water scarcity has been a persistent problem in Bundelkhand. Given the increasing population, we initiated this campaign. We also raised awareness about preserving rivers."
Suman expressed her joy, stating, "We’ve supplied water to over 400,000 individuals in 250 villages. It feels incredible."
Jal Saheli Mamta proudly shared: "I’ve received accolades from the President and the Chief Minister, along with over 100 awards."
Ravina Yadav mentioned: "We are active in various districts. Our numbers will continue to rise in the forthcoming days." Meanwhile, Munni commented: "We traveled from village to village, and people supported us. Government recognition boosts our morale."
