Korea district in Chhattisgarh has emerged as an example of community-led water conservation through the ‘Jal Sanchay Jan Bhagidari’ initiative, where farmers voluntarily dedicate a small portion of their land to support groundwater recharge and sustainable water management.
The initiative, carried out under the Aawa Paani Jhoki movement, encourages farmers to set aside five per cent of their agricultural land to create small recharge ponds and terraced pits. These structures capture rainwater directly in the fields, allowing it to seep into the soil and replenish groundwater.
According to official information, the initiative has helped retain rainwater that earlier flowed away during the monsoon season. The structures have improved soil moisture, reduced soil erosion and contributed to steady groundwater recharge in the region.
Community participation has been central to the campaign. Women have taken on the role of ‘Neer Nayikas’, promoting water conservation and guiding households in building soak pits. Youth volunteers, known as ‘Jal Doots’, have supported the effort by mapping trenches, desilting canals and spreading awareness through street plays and wall art.
As part of the collective effort, more than 440 traditional ponds have been revived through community labour. Over 500 beneficiaries of the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana also constructed soak pits near their homes, integrating water recharge measures into everyday living.
The initiative gained momentum through Gram Sabha resolutions and technical support from the district administration. Micro-watershed mapping and hydrogeological studies were carried out to ensure that recharge structures were placed in suitable locations.
More than 1,260 farmers in the district have adopted the five per cent recharge system on their land, while over 2,000 soak pits have been constructed across villages. In one instance, local communities built 660 soak pits within three hours through coordinated voluntary labour.
Officials say the initiative has led to measurable improvements in water availability. Groundwater levels have risen by around three to four metres in several villages, and natural springs have revived in 17 remote tribal hamlets. Improved soil moisture has supported agricultural productivity, while seasonal migration from the region has reportedly declined by about 25 per cent as local livelihoods strengthened.
The district administration said the programme demonstrates how scientific planning combined with public participation can create sustainable solutions to water challenges.
