Bhopal (Madhya Pradesh): Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Mohan Yadav said that the recently concluded 90-day Jal Ganga Sanvardhan Abhiyan (Water Conservation Campaign) has become a true people’s movement.
In a blog post, he shared that this massive campaign, launched on March 30 from the banks of the Shipra River in Ujjain, which focused on water conservation, rejuvenation of water sources, and spreading awareness across the state.
Inspired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s long-standing efforts towards water conservation - starting with the ‘Catch the Rain’ campaign - the state-level Jal Ganga Abhiyan aimed to save every drop of rainwater. For the first time, a large-scale effort was made to conserve rainwater and reduce dependence on groundwater.
1.29 lakh water structures constructed
CM Yadav revealed that during this campaign, over 1.29 lakh water structures were constructed in Khandwa district alone, earning it the top position in groundwater recharge efforts. He added that 2.3 lakh ‘Jal Doots’ (Water Volunteers) were appointed, who will continue to spread the message of water conservation.
The campaign also included over 812 ‘Pani Chaupals’ where more than 1.5 lakh farmers discussed village-level water solutions and sustainable practices. Technologies like AI, SIPRI software, and dashboards were used to plan and monitor construction of over 83,000 farm ponds, Amrit Sarovars, and recharge wells.
In an emotional note, Yadav mentioned the restoration of historical water structures like the Holkar-era baolis (stepwells), including a 200-year-old one built by Devi Ahilyabai Holkar. More than 2,000 stepwells were revived, and a state-wide “Baoli Utsav” was celebrated.
145 river origins identified
In addition, the state identified over 145 river origins and launched plantation drives along riverbanks, aiming to maintain clean and continuous flow in rivers like the Narmada, Tapti, Betwa, and Shipra.
He emphasized that this effort was a combined one - involving government bodies, social organizations, and the people. Now, the campaign will be followed by a major plantation drive across the state.
Calling it a symbol of cultural and ecological revival, the Chief Minister said, “This campaign is not just about saving water, but about preserving our traditions and securing our future.” He appealed to the people of Madhya Pradesh to continue conserving every drop of water and make the state water-rich for generations to come.
