Bhopal: The Jal Ganga Samvardhan Abhiyan has emerged as a landmark initiative in Madhya Pradesh, setting new benchmarks in public participation for water conservation. Launched on 30 March 2025 and running until 30 June 2025, this campaign aims to revive rivers, protect wetlands, and rejuvenate water bodies across the state. The state’s consistent efforts in water conservation have earned nationwide recognition, especially with the record construction of farm ponds.
Use of SIPRI software
A notable innovation in this effort is the scientific selection of sites for farm ponds using SIPRI (Software for Identification and Planning of Rural Infrastructure). Developed by the State Employment Guarantee Council, Bhopal, in collaboration with ISRO, SIPRI utilizes GIS-based methods to accurately identify locations for water structures. This ensures quality and longevity in the construction of water conservation structures, thereby enhancing their effectiveness.
Bawdi Utsav
In Dewas district, the campaign took a cultural turn with the celebration of Bawdi Utsav at the ancient stepwell ‘Baag Kannaud’ located at Dhoot Agricultural Farm. Organized by the Kannaud unit of Jan Abhiyan Parishad, the event included cleaning of the stepwell, Hanuman Chalisa recitation, devotional songs, lighting of lamps, and an Agnihotra ritual. Devotees performed aarti of Ganga Ji and Narmada Ji, concluding the event with prasad distribution.
Seminar held to boost awareness
Awareness is a core component of the campaign. In Narsinghpur district, a seminar on water and environmental conservation was organized at Shriram Aranyak village, Chinki. Participants pledged their commitment to nature by planting saplings under the initiative ‘Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam’. Experts emphasized adopting water-saving practices during the upcoming monsoon to preserve resources for future generations.
Further strengthening community participation, Jal Chaupal was organized in Ushapur village of Raisen district by the Gram Vikas Prasphutan Samiti. Villagers were encouraged to build soak pits, bunds, and maintain cleanliness of water sources. The event concluded with villagers taking a pledge to conserve and promote water resources, reinforcing their role as stewards of nature.
