In the tribal-dominated district of Dindori in Madhya Pradesh, water conservation has evolved into a community-driven movement under the Jal Ganga Samvardhan Abhiyan. Villages across the region are reviving traditional methods of preserving water while combining them with modern techniques to ensure long-term sustainability.

In the Baiga-dominated village of Khamera, residents are actively participating in plantation drives, construction of soak pits, and development of farm ponds to improve groundwater recharge and water availability. The initiative has also created livelihood opportunities for local communities, with several farm ponds now being used for fish farming, providing an additional source of income.

Officials say lakhs of water conservation structures have been built across Dindori largely through public participation, highlighting the campaign’s success in mobilising rural communities. Launched by the Madhya Pradesh government on March 19, the campaign will continue until June 30 with the aim of reviving traditional water sources.