Rajnandgaon district in Chhattisgarh has implemented a comprehensive water conservation initiative called Mission Jal Raksha, utilizing advanced technologies and community participation to ensure effective capture, conservation, and recharge of rainwater.
As the nationwide #CatchTheRain campaign gains momentum with the onset of the monsoon season, Rajnandgaon district in Chhattisgarh has emerged as a frontrunner in water conservation efforts. Through its Mission Jal Raksha initiative, the district has prepared its landscape to capture, conserve, and recharge every possible raindrop using scientific infrastructure, community mobilization, and innovative groundwater recharge interventions.
Long before the first raindrop touches the ground, Rajnandgaon has implemented a thorough preparation strategy. Mission Jal Raksha employs advanced technologies such as GIS mapping, remote sensing, aquifer mapping, Digital Elevation Models (DEM) and ridge-to-valley planning to identify the most effective locations for groundwater recharge.
The initiative combines these scientific techniques with innovative field interventions. For instance, defunct borewells have been converted into recharge shafts, and mini percolation tanks integrated with deep injection wells have been constructed, enabling rainwater to reach deep aquifers even in hard-rock terrain.
Moreover, Mission Jal Raksha has evolved into a people's movement. Farmers, women, youth, Gram Panchayats, and local communities have actively participated in water budgeting, awareness campaigns, and behavioral change initiatives as part of the initiative.
Crop diversification has further strengthened these efforts, with nearly 70% of summer paddy cultivation shifting to less water-intensive crops, reducing pressure on groundwater while improving agricultural sustainability.
Source:
Press Information Bureau
