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Jalyukt Shivar Abhiyan 2.0 Revitalises Maharashtra’s Waterways

In the heartlands of Maharashtra, where rivers are scarce and agriculture reigns supreme, farmers have long relied on groundwater and the monsoon rains, facing constant challenges. To ease their plight, The Art of Living implemented the JalTara Project, dramatically transforming the landscape. Within a year, groundwater levels increased by 14 feet, crop yields surged by 42%, and farmer incomes doubled by 120%. Additionally, the project resolved drought and waterlogging issues, eliminated crop spoilage, increased land usage by 58%, and boosted employment by 88%.

Scaling Up Success: Jalyukt Shivar Abhiyan 2.0

Inspired by the remarkable success of JalTara, the Government of Maharashtra has taken this initiative forward, integrating it into Jalyukt Shivar Abhiyan 2.0. This ambitious project aims to revolutionise water and soil conservation, transforming Maharashtra’s water and agricultural landscape and ensuring sustainable management for generations to come.

A Historic Partnership

On November 26, 2023, an MoU was signed in Mumbai between The Art of Living Social Projects and the Department of Soil and Water Conservation, Government of Maharashtra. This three-year initiative, endorsed by Gurudev Sri Sri Ravi Shankar, aims to ensure water conservation across 24 districts and 87 talukas, addressing the devastating water crisis with comprehensive measures like Nala Kholikaran and Rundhikaran.

Achieving Milestones

The Art of Living Social Projects has already made significant strides, implementing Jalyukt Shivar Abhiyan 2.0 in 10 districts and 25 talukas. In just 75 days (from March to mid-June 2024), over 23 lakh cubic metres of water storage was excavated and desilted, equating to an incredible 2.3 trillion litres of water.

Rejuvenating Ancient Waterways

One of the standout achievements of Jalyukt Shivar Abhiyan 2.0 is the revitalisation of ancient nalas and canals buried under silt for over 70 years. These previously clogged waterways, which caused flooding during rains, have now been restored, preventing future disasters and bringing life to surrounding fields and hope to farmers.

Empowering Farmers

By restoring these crucial waterways, Jalyukt Shivar Abhiyan 2.0 has brought renewed hope to farmers in the region. The project not only prevents floods but also ensures that water reaches the fields, promoting agricultural growth and sustainability. This initiative has reignited prosperity for farmers across the region.

Gurudev's Vision

Gurudev Sri Sri Ravi Shankar recalls that when The Art of Living's water conservation efforts began in Maharashtra, the State Government provided strong encouragement. He emphasises that collaboration between the Government and the people accelerates progress. Success is assured when there's public support, governmental determination, and Divine Grace working together. Gurudev’s inspirational message is clear: Jalyukt Shivar Abhiyan 2.0 must offer farmers reliable water supply throughout the year, reducing their vulnerability to the whims of nature.

Optimising Water Supply

Unlike its predecessor, which focused on water conservation in 22,000 villages, Jalyukt Shivar Abhiyan 2.0 targets the network of nalas or drainage lines criss crossing 24 districts and 87 talukas of Maharashtra. These nalas serve as conduits for rainwater during the monsoon, channelling it into agricultural fields. However, they also pose a risk of flooding, which can devastate crops and livelihoods. The challenge lies in harnessing rainfall effectively to ensure a steady supply of water for farmers until January or February, beyond which water scarcity becomes a pressing issue.

Exemplary Efforts in Mauda, Nagpur

Central to the agenda of Jalyukt Shivar Abhiyan 2.0 is optimising these drainage systems. In Mauda, Nagpur, extensive desilting work cleared over 200 kilometres of nalas, benefitting more than 2,25,000 villagers. Third party assessments showed a significant increase in groundwater levels, enabling water to flow unimpeded and removing the risk of overflow.

A Collaborative Effort

Supported by government officials and propelled by grassroots cooperation, The Art of Living has already cleared over 10 lakh cubic metres of sediment across 10 districts, including Nagpur, Wardha, Amravati, Akola, Buldhana, Beed, Latur, Solapur, Ahmednagar, and Nandurbar. Farmers are intensely grateful to Gurudev Sri Sri Ravi Shankar and the Government of Maharashtra for their steadfast support. Future plans call for finishing the desilting process by September 15, 2024; with the goal of removing an additional 40 lakh cubic metres of silt.

A Decade of Commitment

Over the past decade, The Art of Living has displayed unwavering commitment to Maharashtra and other states, effectively addressing the water crisis and championing the holistic well-being of farmers. Jalyukt Shivar Abhiyan 2.0 addresses the imminent water crisis while simultaneously nurturing agricultural prosperity.

Join the Movement

Together, we can secure a sustainable future for Maharashtra, ensuring that water is no longer a source of hardship but a catalyst for growth and prosperity. Join us in this transformative journey with Jalyukt Shivar Abhiyan 2.0.

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