Contribution of Tarun Bharat Sangh (TBS) to Watershed Development in Rural Areas
Tarun Bharat Sangh (TBS) is a pioneering grassroots organization based in Rajasthan, India, known for its significant contributions to watershed development, water conservation, and environmental sustainability. Founded in 1975 by Rajendra Singh, often called the “Waterman of India”, TBS has played a transformative role in reviving traditional water management systems and restoring ecosystems in drought-prone regions.
Through community-driven approaches, scientific methods, and traditional wisdom, TBS has successfully rejuvenated rivers, improved agricultural productivity, and empowered rural communities. Its work has influenced national and international policies on watershed management and water conservation.
Key Contributions of Tarun Bharat Sangh (TBS) to Watershed Development
TBS has implemented holistic watershed development strategies that focus on water conservation, soil management, afforestation, and sustainable agriculture. Its contributions can be analyzed under the following areas:
1. Revival of Traditional Water Harvesting Systems
- TBS has revived traditional rainwater harvesting structures such as johads (small earthen check dams), anicuts, and talabs (ponds) to store rainwater.
- These structures help in groundwater recharge, reduce soil erosion, and improve water availability for agriculture and domestic use.
- The community-led construction of over 11,000 johads across Rajasthan has significantly improved local water security.
2. Restoration of Dried Rivers and Water Bodies
- TBS has successfully revived several dried-up rivers, including Arvari, Ruparel, Sarsa, Bhagani, and Jahajwali in Rajasthan.
- Through watershed management techniques, these rivers, which had become seasonal or completely dry, have regained perennial flow, supporting livelihoods and biodiversity.
- The revival of the Arvari River (Alwar district) led to the establishment of a community-led Arvari River Parliament, which governs the sustainable use of water resources.
3. Community-Led Watershed Development Approach
- TBS promotes “Water Democracy”, ensuring that local communities own, manage, and sustain their water resources.
- It has empowered Gram Sabhas (village councils) to take responsibility for water conservation, sustainable agriculture, and afforestation.
- Farmers, women, and youth are actively involved in decision-making, maintenance of johads, and regulating water usage.
4. Sustainable Agriculture and Livelihood Development
- The improved water availability due to watershed management has led to increased agricultural productivity in rural Rajasthan.
- Farmers have adopted sustainable farming techniques, reducing their dependence on chemical fertilizers and irrigation from deep borewells.
- The revival of common grazing lands has benefited livestock farming, which is a major source of livelihood for rural communities.
5. Soil Conservation and Afforestation
- TBS has undertaken large-scale afforestation drives to improve soil quality and prevent desertification.
- The increase in vegetative cover has led to reduced soil erosion, improved groundwater retention, and biodiversity conservation.
- Contour bunding, agroforestry, and organic farming practices are promoted to maintain soil health.
6. Policy Advocacy and National Impact
- The success of TBS in community-led watershed management has influenced government policies on water conservation and environmental sustainability.
- It has played a crucial role in advocating for decentralized water governance, urging governments to adopt people-centric watershed management approaches.
- Rajendra Singh, the founder of TBS, was awarded the Stockholm Water Prize (2015) for his efforts in water conservation and rural development.
Impact of TBS on Rural Watershed Development
The impact of TBS’s watershed development initiatives is visible across multiple dimensions:
1. Increased Groundwater Levels
- The restoration of traditional water harvesting systems has led to a significant rise in groundwater levels in previously water-scarce regions.
- In areas where wells and borewells had dried up, farmers now have access to water for irrigation and drinking.
2. Improved Agricultural Productivity
- Cropping intensity has increased, with farmers now able to cultivate multiple crops instead of relying on rain-fed farming.
- The availability of water for irrigation has reduced the migration of farmers to cities in search of livelihood.
3. Reduced Drought Vulnerability
- Villages that implemented watershed development projects under TBS have become more resilient to droughts.
- Even during rain-deficient years, these areas have sufficient water reserves to sustain agriculture and daily life.
4. Ecological Restoration
- Deforested and barren lands have been restored, leading to increased biodiversity and improved soil health.
- The return of native flora and fauna has contributed to ecological balance and sustainable livelihoods.
5. Socio-Economic Empowerment of Rural Communities
- Women have played an active role in water governance and conservation efforts, leading to greater social empowerment.
- The improved availability of water and food security has enhanced the overall quality of life for rural populations.
Challenges and Future Directions
Challenges Faced by TBS
- Climate Change Impact: Unpredictable rainfall patterns affect rainwater harvesting efforts.
- Industrial and Urban Expansion: Encroachments and over-extraction of groundwater by industries threaten sustainable water use.
- Government Bureaucracy: Policies often do not support community-led water conservation models, making it difficult to scale up initiatives.
Future Directions and Way Forward
- Scaling Watershed Models Nationwide: TBS’s successful model can be expanded to other water-stressed regions of India.
- Policy Advocacy for Decentralized Water Governance: TBS continues to push for community-led watershed management at the national level.
- Integrating Modern Technology: Combining traditional wisdom with modern GIS mapping and hydrological studies can further improve watershed planning.
- Expanding Collaboration: Partnering with research institutions, government agencies, and private sectors can enhance sustainable water management.
Conclusion
Tarun Bharat Sangh (TBS) has played a revolutionary role in watershed development, rural water security, and sustainable agriculture in India. By reviving traditional water harvesting techniques, engaging communities, restoring rivers, and promoting ecological conservation, TBS has demonstrated a successful, community-driven model of watershed management.
Its impact goes beyond Rajasthan, influencing national and global water conservation policies. Despite challenges, TBS remains a leading organization in sustainable rural development, proving that local participation and traditional wisdom can effectively address modern water crises.
By replicating and scaling TBS’s approach across water-stressed regions, India can achieve long-term water security, agricultural prosperity, and climate resilience.