Prime Minister Narendra Modi stated on World Water Day that “We reaffirm our commitment to promoting water conservation and sustainable development. Water is the foundation of life, and hence it must be preserved for future generations.” He also said, “Our ancestors always prioritized water conservation. The Vedas and Puranas describe the construction of reservoirs, dams, and ponds as a sacred duty of humanity.”
Chief Minister Dr. Mohan Yadav said that the vision of Prime Minister Modi will be fulfilled. To realize this vision, a 90-day Jal Ganga Conservation Campaign has been launched in the state. Under this campaign, efforts are being made to preserve water sources in villages, with a special focus on river conservation.
Public participation to preserve Mandakini, the river that witnessed Ram and Mata Sita’s exile
In Satna district, under the Jal Ganga Sanvardhan Abhiyan, public participation is being mobilized every Saturday to clean the banks of the Mandakini River and the Sphatik Shila area under the leadership of Mahatma Gandhi Chitrakoot Gramodaya Vishwavidyalaya’s Kulguru, Prof. Bharat Mishra. The Mandakini River holds deep spiritual significance as Ram and Mata Sita spent a significant part of their 14-year exile along its banks. Pilgrims visiting for a holy dip and darshan at Ram Tirth have expressed appreciation for the campaign’s efforts to protect and rejuvenate this sacred river.
Innovative local efforts in Umaria to preserve water and soil
In the Umaria district, community-led innovation called ‘Bori Bandhan’ (sandbag damming) is being implemented for water conservation. In the model village of Bharoli, a small dam was created on the Khajura stream using sandbags, symbolizing the value of preserving water. Residents have pledged their support, understanding the importance of water conservation.
344 recharge pits being constructed in Rewa
Under the campaign in the Rewa district, 344 recharge pits are being constructed in wells across 564 gram panchayats. Technical approvals have been granted for the same. The distribution of pits is as follows: 54 in the Gangev block, 49 in Jawa, 63 in Raipur Karchuliyan, 56 in the Rewa block, 63 in Sirmaur, and 59 in Tyonthar. These pits will help replenish groundwater by collecting rainwater in traditional wells. Additionally, rainwater will be harvested through recharge pits in 10,000 handpumps in the district.
Cleaning temple pond to spread message: “Water is Nature’s Precious Gift”
In Shahdol, under the campaign, a pond at the ancient Chipadnath Hanuman Temple in the village of Mau, BEOHARI, was cleaned with community participation. The temple priest, public representatives, and government officials joined the devotees in the drive. The priest shared the message: “Water is nature’s precious gift—save it, for it is the essence of life.”.
