Leslin K Seemon
| 54 views | 4 min read
Water—every drop counts, especially in a country like India where it dictates the prosperity or decline of entire communities. Amidst the challenges of water scarcity and environmental degradation, one man's relentless pursuit of sustainability stands out—Rajendra Singh, fondly known as the ‘Jalpurush’ or ‘Waterman of India.’
Through his organisation, Tarun Bharat Sangh, he has revived thousands of water bodies in Rajasthan—the state with the highest water stress in the country. For his dedicated work in the field of water conservation, Dr. Singh has also won prestigious awards like Ramon Magsaysay Award in 2001 and the Stockholm Water Prize in 2015.
Rajendra Singh’s journey began in the early 1980s when he moved to Rajasthan, one of India's most arid states. He quit working as an Ayurvedic doctor in Alwar and started working for water conservation. Observing the acute water scarcity that plagued rural communities, Singh championed the revival of ancient water harvesting techniques, including the construction of johads—small earthen check dams that capture and conserve rainwater.
Over the decades, his unwavering commitment and grassroots approach have led to the rejuvenation of several rivers, including the Arvari River, which had been dry for over 60 years.
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The impact of these revived water sources extends beyond mere irrigation. They have breathed new life into local ecosystems and bolstered community resilience against droughts and floods. Singh's work exemplifies how traditional knowledge and a low cost approach when applied in conjunction with community efforts, can achieve sustainable environmental conservation.
Before Dr. Rajendra Singh's interventions, the villages faced challenges such as lack of water, food, fodder, malnutrition, absence of crops, unemployment, and water scarcity. However, after his efforts, there was a significant change with the presence of water, grains, and prosperity in the villages. The Earth's health improved significantly: temperatures dropped by 2 degrees, 250,000 wells were recharged, and over a million people reaped the benefits of these initiatives
Under Rajendra Singh’s guidance, communities learned to take ownership of their water resources, leading to a participatory approach in water management. His initiatives have not only enhanced water availability but have also fostered socio-economic development in rural areas. Villages that participated in these water conservation projects witnessed improved agricultural yields, increased employment, and reduced migration to urban centres.
Rajendra Singh’s efforts garnered him the prestigious Stockholm Water Prize in 2015, recognizing his contributions as instrumental in improving the living conditions of thousands of villagers. His philosophy is simple yet profound: "Water is connected to everything we care about—food, hygiene, nature, and our livelihood."
Comparing Rajendra Singh's methods with other global water conservation efforts reveals a unique blend of traditional wisdom and community empowerment. Unlike top-down approaches seen in many parts of the world, Singh’s strategies emphasise local involvement and sustainable practices that can be maintained by the communities themselves.
As we face global challenges like climate change and water scarcity, the story of Rajendra Singh, the Waterman of India, serves as a compelling reminder of what can be achieved when communities come together for a common cause. His life's work continues to inspire not just environmental activists but every individual looking to make a difference in their world.
For those interested in environmental conservation, sustainable practices, and community leadership, Rajendra Singh's model offers a blueprint for action. His legacy is a testament to the power of collective effort and traditional wisdom in addressing some of today’s most pressing environmental issues.
By learning from leaders like Singh, we can all contribute to a more sustainable future, ensuring that water—our most precious resource—flows abundantly for generations to come.
Recommended Watch : The complete journey of water man Documentary - The Waterman of India
