How Balod's Jan Bhagidari model in Chhattisgarh gives new momentum to #CatchTheRain movement
Responding to Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s call during the 135th edition of Mann Ki Baat to sustain the momentum of #CatchTheRain movement, Balod district of Chhattisgarh has emerged as a remarkable example of community-driven water conservation under Jal Sanchay Jan Bhagidari (JSJB) 2.0.
With active participation of Gram Panchayats, local communities and the district administration, Balod has implemented a wide range of rainwater harvesting and groundwater recharge interventions that are already demonstrating tangible results during the ongoing monsoon. The district has created 2 lakh 84 thousand 917 water conservation and recharge structures between June 2025 and May 2026, significantly enhancing its capacity to capture and conserve rainwater.
Visible impact across villages
Several innovative interventions across Balod district have transformed dry landscapes into productive water assets
Tawera Nala rejuvenation: A model of Jan Bhagidari
Among Balod's most notable achievements is the rejuvenation of Tawera Nala in Bhathagaon (R), Gundardehi block. Through collective efforts under #CatchTheRain campaign and Jal Sanchay Jan Bhagidari, the district revived a 14.3 km nala by constructing over 6,250 water conservation structures, including check dams, trenches, magic pits, soak pits, injection wells, rainwater harvesting systems and greywater treatment facilities.
These interventions are expected to enable conservation of 6.5 crore litres of additional rainwater while improving groundwater levels by an estimated 5–10 feet. The initiative has also strengthened irrigation, improved cropping prospects and restored ecological health through active community participation.
A proven leader in water conservation
Balod has consistently demonstrated leadership in water conservation. Under JSJB 1.0, the district created over 1.06 lakh water conservation structures, securing third position nationally and first position in the Eastern Zone under #CatchTheRain campaign, for which it was honoured by the President of India.
Sustaining the momentum
The achievements of Balod reflect the core philosophy of "Jan Bhagidari se Jal Sanrakshan", demonstrating how collective community action can strengthen water security and climate resilience. As the country observes the ongoing monsoon season, such initiatives reaffirm the vision of transforming water conservation into a nationwide Jan Andolan, in line with the Prime Minister's appeal to save every drop and sustain the momentum of #CatchTheRain movement.