Khandwa Ranked No. 1 in India for Water Conservation Efforts
On June 1, the Ministry of Jal Shakti released its performance report on the "Jal Sanchay Jan Bhagidari Abhiyan" (Water Conservation Public Participation Campaign), declaring Khandwa district in Madhya Pradesh as the top performer in India.
1.29 Lakh Water Structures Built in 6 Months
Six months ago, the district initiated the construction of 1,29,041 water conservation structures, out of which 1,29,003 have been completed, and the remaining 38 are near completion. These numbers place Khandwa at the forefront of India’s water conservation movement.
Madhya Pradesh Leads the Campaign
Overall, in Madhya Pradesh, work began on over 27.62 lakh water structures, with 23.83 lakh already completed and 3.79 lakh still under construction. Khandwa's disciplined execution and scale of work have set it apart.
Physical Verification and National Recognition
The rankings were based on data submitted by state governments. However, the Ministry of Jal Shakti will conduct physical verifications in top-performing districts before presenting the official Water Conservation Awards.
Rainwater Harvesting in Government Buildings
According to MGNREGA Commissioner Avi Prasad, Khandwa also performed exceptionally in the Jal Ganga Sanvardhan Abhiyan. The administration prioritized water conservation at all levels, including rooftop harvesting on government buildings.
Major Initiatives in Khandwa Include:
- 12,750 recharge pits for wells
- 1,500 recharge shafts
- 23,570 dug wells
- 3,269 nala trenches
- 6,528 handpump recharge units
- 39,000 rooftop rainwater harvesting units
- 4,800 farm ponds
- 1,500 field ponds
- 750 dry borewell recharge units
- 6,560 repaired/restored structures
‘Catch the Rain’ Campaign: A National Movement
The campaign was launched on 6 September 2024 by the Ministry of Jal Shakti, inspired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s call to "Catch the rain, where it falls, when it falls." Each village was assigned a target of at least 5 water structures, while urban areas aimed for 10. The initiative includes borewell recharge, rooftop harvesting, and rejuvenation of traditional water bodies.