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Jharkhand’s Jitkundi Reservoir
A reservoir built in 2023 in the remote village of Jitkundi, around 20 km from Giridih district headquarters, has significantly impacted the village’s water supply and agriculture.
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- The reservoir was built as part of NITI Aayog’s Rejuvenation Window-II, with the goal of rejuvenating 5,132 water bodies in the district.
- The project uses CLART, a GIS tool for soil and water conservation planning, to capture and store rainwater during the monsoon.
A Project Credit to Naman Priyesh Lakra
- Naman Priyesh Lakra, the Deputy Commissioner of Giridih and a 2015 Jharkhand cadre IAS officer, spearheaded the project.
- Lakra’s leadership in rejuvenating 57 water bodies under NITI Aayog’s Rejuvenation Window-II over the past two years has earned him The Indian Express Excellence in Governance Award 2024 in the water category.
Comprehensive Water Conservation Measures
- The project goes beyond just reservoirs, implementing additional water conservation techniques like:
- Trench Cum Bunds (TCBs) – Trenches near slopes capture rainwater runoff.
- Soak pits – Porous chambers allow groundwater recharge.
- Conservation methods are customised based on local needs.
Impact on Agriculture and Livelihoods
- Earlier, drought was common, but now water is available year-round, even in peak summer.
- Jageshwar Rana, a 68-year-old farmer, witnessed an increase in his paddy yield from 30 kg (2023) to 75 kg (2024) due to improved irrigation.
- The quality of grains has improved as consistent water supply enhances crop growth.
- The reservoir’s overflow is directed to lower fields via dedicated channels, ensuring efficient water distribution.
Addressing Giridih’s Water Crisis
- The project was initiated to counter water scarcity, ensure sustainable agriculture, and improve livelihoods.
- Recognising the ecological and cultural significance of the region’s rivers (Barakar River, Usri River), the initiative sets an example for sustainable water management.
- It aims to serve as a model for environmental conservation not just in Jharkhand but across India.
A Model for Future Water Conservation Efforts
- The Jitkundi Reservoir is a blueprint for rural water security, showcasing how technology-driven planning and local involvement can solve critical water shortages.
- With over 5,000 similar projects planned, the success in Giridih offers hope for sustainable development in water-stressed regions.
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The Source’s Authority and Ownership of the Article is Claimed By THE STUDY IAS BY MANIKANT SINGH
