In a significant step towards sustainable agriculture and water management, the Government of Maharashtra has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with voluntary organisations to implement a long-term water conservation project in Gadchiroli district. The initiative aims to benefit over 3,000 farmers across 30 villages in the Etapalli taluka.
Project Timeline and Focus
The water conservation initiative will be carried out between May 2025 and March 2028. The plan includes a wide range of activities such as:
- Soil and water conservation
- Development of agricultural infrastructure
- Crop productivity enhancement
- Watershed and irrigation management
Leadership and Vision
Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis praised the collaborative model and emphasised the importance of using a scientific approach to tackle climate-related challenges. He highlighted how such efforts are essential to boost farmer income and ensure sustainable livelihoods in drought-prone areas.
Public-Private Participation
The project is a result of a tri-party collaboration involving the state government, local administrative bodies, and reputed NGOs. The Hindustan Unilever Foundation has also extended its support to ensure the long-term success of the program through funding and technical expertise.
Expected Impact
Once fully implemented, the project will help restore and manage water bodies across nearly 3,000 acres of farmland. This is expected to bring multiple benefits, such as:
- Increased groundwater recharge
- Higher agricultural output
- Improved rural infrastructure
- Better resilience against drought and erratic rainfall
Conclusion
The Gadchiroli water conservation project represents a bold step towards building a sustainable future for farmers in one of Maharashtra’s most remote regions. It also sets a benchmark for climate-smart rural development in India, combining government initiative, grassroots participation, and corporate responsibility.
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