Raipur: Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai and Union Jal Shakti Minister C. R. Patil jointly reviewed the implementation of the Jal Sanchay-Jan Bhagidari 2.0 campaign at a high-level meeting held at the CM residence in Nava Raipur on Friday. Minister Patil participated virtually and addressed the gathering, emphasizing the importance of community participation in sustainable water conservation efforts.
CM Sai Stresses Water as Precious Resource
CM Sai highlighted that in the 21st century, water scarcity is not only an environmental issue but also an economic, social, and developmental challenge. Referring to PM Modi’s message, he urged citizens to treat water like “prasad”—using it responsibly and with sensitivity.
He further noted that in the first phase of the campaign, Chhattisgarh secured second place nationally in water conservation efforts, earning awards across multiple districts. During phase one, large-scale constructions of borewell recharge structures, rooftop rainwater harvesting, recharge shafts, soak pits, and openwell recharges were completed through active community participation.
Currently, the state has 5 critical and 21 semi-critical groundwater blocks, and in 2025, improvements were recorded in groundwater extraction and levels in 5 blocks compared to 2024, indicating positive outcomes from conservation initiatives.
10 Lakh Water Structures Targeted by May 31, 2026
Under phase two, the campaign has adopted a technology-driven and results-oriented approach. The state government aims to construct 10 lakh water conservation structures by May 31, 2026, marking a historic step toward water security.
To encourage farmers, over 4 lakh farmers with land exceeding 10 acres are being incentivized to build “dabris” in their fields. These structures will help recharge groundwater and provide additional benefits like irrigation and fish farming. Industrial groups and district administrations are collaborating in this effort.
Youth to Become “Jal Mitra”
CM Sai announced that all water structures will be geotagged, and Gram Panchayats will maintain water budgets and conservation plans. Village youth will be trained as “Jal Mitra” to actively support the campaign.
- Semi-critical blocks: 40% target for water conservation works
- Critical blocks: 65% target
He appealed to citizens to make water conservation a daily habit, safeguard structures, and adopt a responsible approach toward water usage.
Union Minister Patil Praises Chhattisgarh’s Efforts
Union Jal Shakti Minister C. R. Patil commended Chhattisgarh’s water conservation initiatives and innovations, noting the state’s second-place ranking nationally in 2024. He recalled PM Modi’s September 2024 call from Surat to make water conservation a people’s movement, emphasizing collaboration between communities and the government.
Patil urged all district collectors to ensure effective utilization of MNREGA funds for water conservation works and lauded a woman sarpanch from Rajnandgaon for her exemplary efforts in local water management. The minister stressed increasing community participation as a key element in achieving sustainable water security.
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