Districts Intensify Efforts to Complete Key Initiatives Before Rainfall Begins
Madhya Pradesh is witnessing an accelerated rollout of the Jal Ganga Samvardhan Abhiyan, as the ambitious state-wide water conservation campaign enters its final phase. Launched on March 30, 2025, the initiative has gained widespread momentum, marked by active public participation and a strong focus on restoring and safeguarding water resources ahead of the monsoon.
The campaign covers a broad range of conservation activities such as pond deepening, soak pit construction, and revival of traditional water bodies. District administrations are conducting frequent reviews to ensure timely completion of these works before the onset of rains.
Community-Driven Efforts Across Districts
Under the guidance of Collector Ajay Dev Sharma (IAS: 2014), community engagement is being reinforced through village-level Chaupals, plantation drives, and awareness campaigns. These are supported by wall art, public pledges, and other local outreach initiatives aimed at fostering a culture of environmental stewardship at the grassroots level.
In Ratlam, Collector Rajesh Batham (IAS: 2012) has introduced geo-tagging of water conservation structures and mandated real-time updates via Google Sheets. Special emphasis has been placed on the construction of recharge pits near Anganwadi centers, health facilities, and schools, with departments like Public Health Engineering (PHE) responsible for their timely execution. Jal Shakti Kendras are also undergoing regular inspections to ensure accountability.
Deadline-Driven Action in Shahdol and Beyond
In the Shahdol division, Commissioner Surabhi Gupta (IAS: 2008) has directed that all water-related projects—such as pond rejuvenation, Amrit Sarovar construction, cleaning of wells and stepwells, and catchment clearance—be completed by June 20. These efforts aim to maximize rainwater harvesting potential and eliminate barriers to natural water flow into traditional storage systems.
Blending Heritage with Conservation: Bawdi Utsav in Dewas
A cultural highlight of the campaign was the Bawdi Utsav, held at the historic Hathi Baori in Kamalapur, Dewas, commemorating 300 years of Lokmata Ahilyabai Holkar. The event celebrated the heritage of ancient stepwells and encouraged local communities to restore and protect these water structures as symbols of sustainable living.
Holistic Approach in Rewa, Mauganj, and Mandla
In Rewa and Mauganj, the campaign has focused on both restoring existing water bodies and creating new infrastructure such as farm ponds, plantation pits, and reactivation of piped water schemes through the PHE Department. For instance, in Gram Panchayat Dhopakhari, two new farm ponds are currently under construction.
Meanwhile, in Mandla district, a mobile awareness van launched by the PHE Department is educating residents on safe drinking water practices, chlorination, and water testing techniques, further boosting public understanding and participation.
Racing Against Time for a Water-Secure Future
With the monsoon rapidly approaching, the Madhya Pradesh government is working at full speed to complete all planned water conservation activities. The goal: to ensure sustainable water availability and resilience for both rural and urban communities across the state.
About the Jal Ganga Samvardhan Abhiyan
The Jal Ganga Samvardhan Abhiyan is a flagship water conservation initiative launched by the Madhya Pradesh government on March 30, 2025. The campaign aims to rejuvenate traditional water bodies, enhance groundwater recharge, and promote rainwater harvesting through extensive community participation. Activities include pond deepening, soak pit construction, and tree plantation around water sources, all strategically planned ahead of the monsoon season to maximize impact.
