Sri Kshetra Dharmasthala Rural Development Project (SKDRDP) Motivates Members to Preserve Water Tanks in Karnataka
Sri Kshetra Dharmasthala Rural Development Project (SKDRDP) has been actively engaged in conducting motivational workshops for more than 6,000 members of the 622 Kere Samithis (lake committees) across the state of Karnataka. These workshops are part of SKDRDP’s “Nammooru-Namma Kere” (Our City, Our Lake) initiative, aimed at rejuvenating and preserving traditional tanks. L.H. Manjunath, the Project Executive Director, emphasized the importance of these workshops in strengthening the Samithis and passing on the treasure of tanks that perform multiple roles including water storage, groundwater recharge, and sustaining flora and fauna.
The Challenges Faced by Tanks in Karnataka
Unfortunately, many tanks have suffered a significant loss in their holding capacity due to various reasons such as the lack of regular maintenance, encroachment, silt deposition, and unbridled excavation for fertile soil. The drains and streams responsible for filling these tanks with rainwater have disappeared due to encroachment, exacerbating the water scarcity faced by farmers and communities. Women are forced to walk long distances to fetch drinking water, highlighting the urgent need to address the depleting water resources in the region.
The Vision of Sri Kshetra Dharmasthala Rural Development Project
In response to these challenges, D. Veerendra Heggade, the Chairman of SKDRDP and Dharmasthala Pattadhikari, envisioned the Nammooru-Namma Kere concept in 2016. The project aims to identify traditional tanks for rejuvenation through Kere Samithis. The Samithis, having recently been revived, are now conducting motivational camps at the district level to strengthen their commitment to preserving these vital water bodies.
Permanent Management and Financial Support
The motivational workshops organized by SKDRDP primarily focus on providing information about the permanent management of tanks and the registration process for Kere Samithis under the relevant government rules. Members also receive detailed guidance on the availability of funds for tank development from various government departments and other organizations. This critical knowledge empowers the Samithi members to create action plans for tank rejuvenation, maintenance, and the establishment of green covers around these bodies of water. Additionally, the workshops highlight income-generating activities that can be undertaken using the tanks, further motivating the Samithis to prevent encroachment on tanks and streams.
Recognizing Excellence and Encouraging Commitment
SKDRDP aims to encourage Samithis to remain actively engaged in preserving tanks by recognizing and felicitating the best Kere Samithi in each district. This recognition not only serves as an incentive for the Samithis but also promotes a sense of healthy competition among them, leading to increased involvement and dedication to the cause.
In conclusion, SKDRDP’s “Nammooru-Namma Kere” initiative serves as a guiding light for the preservation and rejuvenation of traditional tanks in Karnataka. Through their motivational workshops, SKDRDP empowers the members of Kere Samithis to take charge of the preservation efforts and secure the future of these vital water bodies. By fostering a sense of responsibility both among individuals and communities, SKDRDP is contributing immensely to the sustainable development and conservation of water resources in the region.
For more information about SKDRDP and their noble initiatives, please visit https://www.skdrdpindia.org/.