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Water Resource Management Crop production in Bundelkhand is characterised by low yield and rain fed agriculture. In the absence of proper water resource planning and management, most of the natural ponds and lakes are getting dried up. Delay in pre monsoon showers and slow onset of monsoon causes great damage to the crops. Excessive precipitation causes rapid runoff on slopes resulting in heavy soil loss as well as siltation of the river bed. The inclined topography of the area, less water absorption capacity of the soil, unscientific cultivation practices, lack of proper soil and water conservation measures and people’s participation, non-transparent developmental schemes and programmes are the major cause for water stress in the region. Efficient use and management of available rainwater through storage options along with ground water recharge is the practical solution if cropping intensity and production is to be enhanced. The practice of rainwater harvesting in ponds, drainage and reusing the stored water for life saving irrigation of crops and also for domestic purposes is prevalent in the region. Implementation of community water management schemes with maximum people’s participation is the suitable option to mitigate all the ill effects of drought and soil erosion prevalent in the region. Harvesting of rainwater through micro irrigation has the potential to revolutionise the agriculture sector by enhancing productivity and quality of agricultural production in the region. Water harvesting is best done by catching the water where it falls. Rainwater harvesting, irrespective of the technology used, essentially means storing water in the days of abundance for use in the lean days. Rainwater harvesting helps to meet the increasing demand for water, reduce the runoff and soil erosion which is choking the drains and increase ground water recharge. The total amount of rainwater harvested in the year 2019-20 by the Development Alternatives team is 612 TCM which was captured through tank and water body rejuvenation in the area. ■
Rishab Singh
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