A Village Dependent on Rain
Jahagirdarwadi, a small village in Osmanabad block of Maharashtra’s Osmanabad district, is home to the Banjara community. Many women here work in sugarcane cutting, spending half the year away from the village during harvest season. Farming and daily wage labour form the backbone of the local economy, with agriculture entirely dependent on rainfall, making water conservation vital.
Identifying a Solution Together
In a community meeting, villagers shared the challenge of low rainfall and its impact. They decided to take action by constructing Continuous Contour Trenches (CCTs) and repairing a small pond to conserve water for both farming and animals. On May 29, 2024, they began work without delay.
Women Digging CCTs
Three Days of Collective Action
Over three days, 120 women participated in Shramdaan (voluntary labour), some even wearing traditional attire while working. Together, they built 102 CCTs and repaired the pond, aiming to retain water in the village and ensure drinking water for local livestock and wildlife.
Repaired Pond Ready for Monsoon
Anticipated Impact and Community Recognition
This effort is expected to reduce water scarcity, help raise groundwater levels, and provide water for farming. The restored pond will also benefit wild animals in nearby forests. On June 11, 2024, Family Kits were rewarded to the women, who expressed heartfelt gratitude for the recognition of their work.
Be a Part of Change
Our invitation to you is, start from where you are.. From a small change of starting a Goonj kee Gullak or Team 5000, joining a long and deep change process, or things in between- organising a collection drive, a volunteering journey, an internship, or simply walking with us signing for a Goonj monthly newsletter subscription.. More on www.goonj.org or write to [email protected].
Many options, but the choice is always one; Taking Action..
