In the villages of Bambarga, Kattanbhavi, Ningenhatti, and Goramatti, nestled in the north of Belagavi taluk, a remarkable transformation has taken place through the implementation of a watershed project. Before 1995, these villages faced acute water scarcity, exacerbated by the absence of natural water sources. Dependent on scanty rainfall for their livelihoods, the landscape wore a barren and desolate look, with even existing trees being felled for various domestic purposes, rendering rainwater futile.
Residents endured the arduous task of seeking drinking water from dimly lit wells during nighttime, with such hardships tarnishing the villages’ reputation, even dissuading suitors from marrying into these communities. Moreover, the scarcity of fodder made tending to milch animals a challenging endeavor.
Dr. Shivaji Kaganikar, propelled by the visions of Sane Guruji and Mahatma Gandhi, transitioned from academia to social activism. Witnessing the distressing conditions in these villages, he embarked on a mission to enlighten the villagers about the watershed project’s potential benefits. Drawing inspiration from Anna Hazare’s initiatives, he arranged visits for locals to witness successful implementations in Ralegansiddhi village, Maharashtra.
Following the concept of harnessing rainwater through slope diversion, trenching, and afforestation, residents of Bambarga, Kattanbhavi, Ningenhatti, and Goramatti villages actively participated in digging parallel furrows and planting fruit-bearing trees on hill slopes. Additionally, community-led efforts led to the construction of small dams, excavation of ponds, and establishment of wells, ensuring water availability for irrigation and domestic use.
The initiative, primarily funded by a generous German philanthropist due to a lack of government support, has borne fruit. Dr. Shivaji Kaganikar, affectionately known as Dada, has been honored with the Karnataka Rajyostv Award and an Honorary Doctorate from Gadag University for his exemplary environmental stewardship.
The success of this watershed project has garnered attention nationwide, with officials and experts from various departments and organizations visiting to study and replicate the model in their respective regions.
Buoyed by this success, a new watershed project has been initiated in Yamkanmardi village under the leadership of Pravin Khoda, marking another stride towards sustainable water management and environmental conservation.
Wish that had been done in our Belgaum