Kumar Bahukhandi
Raipur: Dular Singh of Baheradih, Jata Gram Panchayat, Janjgir-Champa district, has become a living example of the growth of agriculture and animal husbandry simply by building a pond in his field. Dular Singh built this pond through the MNREGA scheme. Agriculture and animal husbandry have always been the foundation of rural life, but water is the soul of both. If water supply is strengthened, the rural economy automatically becomes stronger. Dular Singh has made this vision a reality.
Before the construction of the pond, Dular Singh faced a shortage of water for irrigation of his fields, resulting in limited harvests. Additionally, they faced a constant water shortage for duck farming, fish farming, and irrigation of paddy fields. Consequently, through the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Scheme (MGNREGA), the construction of a pond on the farm of Dular Singh in the Jata Gram Panchayat was approved.
Under the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Scheme Dular Singh, a farmer in Jata, commissioned the construction of a pond on his private land. An administrative amount of ₹2.14 lakh was approved for this project, and work commenced and was completed in June 2024. A total of 380 man-days were generated, resulting in wages of ₹92,577 for 37 working families. This not only created employment but also increased water conservation and agricultural production. Rainwater harvesting in the pond now ensures smooth irrigation of fields throughout the year. He also began fish farming and animal husbandry, which also provided a source of additional income.
Dular Singh explains that the construction of a pond under the MNREGA scheme is now irrigating his fields. He is now able to grow vegetables on the embankment along with paddy. He has sown 2 kg of Rohu and Pangas fish seeds in the pond. When the fish grow to 1 kg next month, he will sell them in the market, generating income.
Dular Singh has planted turmeric and sesame on the embankment of his constructed pond, which he will use for his home. Fish farming and animal husbandry have significantly increased his household income. The village head and employment assistant stated that this initiative has inspired other farmers in the village.
Villagers are now coming forward to build water conservation structures on their land. This pond construction has not only created a foundation for a sustainable livelihood for Dular Singh, but also serves as an excellent example of MNREGA’s objective of creating permanent assets while providing employment.
