With an aim to create a lasting impact by working towards making water accessible to one and all in Telangana, The Pioneer brings to you about the watershed development project that is working towards the cause.
The watershed development project in Telangana in collaboration with implementation partner National Agro Foundation aims to create a long-lasting impact by improving access to water. This innovative initiative follows a 360-degree model of sustainability using a four-pronged approach by fulfilling the needs of the community by increasing the water supply through building water resources like ponds, dams, and water tankers. It minimizes water demand by teaching farmers sustainable and efficient water utilization techniques. It is encouraging economic development through helping farmers maximize profits and providing microfinancing to women-owned small businesses. And finally, a focus on community well-being through clean drinking water, toilets, handwashing stations, and improving the school infrastructure. Vaishali Iyer, from Novartis India, opens up sharing details about the project.
“The project has been able to impact over 11,000 lives, build 18 water structures to harvest and store rainwater, and see an overall improvement in the livelihood of the community. Moreover, the project supports economic development by empowering farmers with knowledge and skills to maximize their agricultural productivity and income. By fostering entrepreneurship and encouraging women-owned small businesses through microfinancing, we contribute to sustainable economic growth and poverty alleviation,” she begins. The watershed project has made a significant impact in the Medak district since its initiation in 2021.
She continues, “Building upon the successes and lessons learned, we embarked on a new endeavor, embracing the district of Yadadri Bhuvanagiri. Through the scaling up and replication of the watershed project, we aim to extend its comprehensive sustainability model to more communities, thereby fostering improved livelihoods in rural areas.”
They have been able to reach 12 villages and by expanding the reach of the watershed project, they strive to make an even more profound impact, uplifting rural communities and further contributing to the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals. “Through research, we identified that the Krishna river basin in Telangana, which serves as the water source for our water consumption at Genome Valley and our Novartis Knowledge Centre in Hyderabad, was home to many water-stressed communities relying on agriculture as their primary source of income. These communities were trapped in a vicious cycle where the lack of water resulted in income loss. We saw the opportunity to address this problem and bring about positive change in their lives,” adds the country head.
Water is a fundamental and foundational aspect of humanity and health, and by undertaking this initiative, they aim to make a meaningful impact by providing sustainable solutions to the water challenges faced by these communities. “In addition to addressing water scarcity challenges, the project has emphasized the empowerment of women in the community. Women’s self-help groups and women-led businesses have been promoted through microfinancing solutions. So far, the SHG has disbursed INR 13 lakhs, enabling women to start new businesses or expand existing ones such as grocery shops, clothing stores, tailoring, and livestock rearing. Recognising the importance of environmental preservation, the project also contributes to the overall ecosystem. The project promotes the adoption of efficient irrigation techniques like drip irrigation and encourages conservation agriculture practices to reduce water consumption and enhance soil health. Planting trees actively aids in carbon sequestration and encourages flora and fauna biodiversity. This holistic approach ensures the project’s positive impact extends beyond economic development, encompassing environmental well-being as well,” conclud
“The project has been able to impact over 11,000 lives, build 18 water structures to harvest and store rainwater, and see an overall improvement in the livelihood of the community. Moreover, the project supports economic development by empowering farmers with knowledge and skills to maximize their agricultural productivity and income. By fostering entrepreneurship and encouraging women-owned small businesses through microfinancing, we contribute to sustainable economic growth and poverty alleviation,” she begins. The watershed project has made a significant impact in the Medak district since its initiation in 2021.
She continues, “Building upon the successes and lessons learned, we embarked on a new endeavor, embracing the district of Yadadri Bhuvanagiri. Through the scaling up and replication of the watershed project, we aim to extend its comprehensive sustainability model to more communities, thereby fostering improved livelihoods in rural areas.”
They have been able to reach 12 villages and by expanding the reach of the watershed project, they strive to make an even more profound impact, uplifting rural communities and further contributing to the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals. “Through research, we identified that the Krishna river basin in Telangana, which serves as the water source for our water consumption at Genome Valley and our Novartis Knowledge Centre in Hyderabad, was home to many water-stressed communities relying on agriculture as their primary source of income. These communities were trapped in a vicious cycle where the lack of water resulted in income loss. We saw the opportunity to address this problem and bring about positive change in their lives,” adds the country head.
Water is a fundamental and foundational aspect of humanity and health, and by undertaking this initiative, they aim to make a meaningful impact by providing sustainable solutions to the water challenges faced by these communities. “In addition to addressing water scarcity challenges, the project has emphasized the empowerment of women in the community. Women’s self-help groups and women-led businesses have been promoted through microfinancing solutions. So far, the SHG has disbursed INR 13 lakhs, enabling women to start new businesses or expand existing ones such as grocery shops, clothing stores, tailoring, and livestock rearing. Recognising the importance of environmental preservation, the project also contributes to the overall ecosystem. The project promotes the adoption of efficient irrigation techniques like drip irrigation and encourages conservation agriculture practices to reduce water consumption and enhance soil health. Planting trees actively aids in carbon sequestration and encourages flora and fauna biodiversity. This holistic approach ensures the project’s positive impact extends beyond economic development, encompassing environmental well-being as well,” conclud
