In Mundargi Taluk, Gadag District, the SBI Foundation, in collaboration with Sankalpa Rural Development Society, has implemented the Raita Bandhu Project, under which farm ponds and bunds are being constructed for small and marginal farmers.
As part of this initiative, SBI Foundation has provided an excavator. This is hired to the farmers for a minimal cost and is aiding in water conservation and agricultural development on their lands.
Excavator Support for Farmers
Being the crucial part of the project the SBI Foundation has provided an excavator to facilitate pond and bund construction. Due to this the Farmers can hire equipments at a minimal cost, ensuring affordable access to water conservation solutions.
Project Launch and Achievements
The “Raita Bandhu Project” was launched on March 13, 2022, and inaugurated on World Water Day, March 22, 2023. Now, as it completes two years of operation and enters its third year, it has successfully:
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Constructed 36 farm ponds and 148 bunds
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Benefited 132 farmers
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Facilitated the percolation of 11.40 lakh litres of water across 713 acres of farmland
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Stored a total of 432 lakh litres of water across all ponds
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Impact on Farming and Soil Conservation
12 lakh litres of water is stored in each ponds, This ensures critical irrigation during dry periods. Additionally, due to the arresting of erosion by the construction of strategically placed bunds, it has prevented two inches of topsoil erosion, with water runoff – thereby promoting fertile and productive farming.
Rainwater Harvesting for Sustainable Farming
The efforts undertaken through this project serve as an inspiration to the local farmers to work on their rainwater harvesting efforts to improve their ability to have water available for critical irrigation times and increase the production on their land. This initiative is a significant step toward water conservation, the need of the hour throughout India.
Future Expansion Plans
Under its CSR initiative, SBI Foundation plans to expand this project to over 25 villages in Shirahatti, Lakshmeshwar, and Gadag Taluks in the coming years. SBI Foundation and Sankalpa Rural Development Society remain committed to serving farmers as their true companions.
Leadership’s Perspective on the Project
The SBI Foundation’s Managing Director, Mr. Sanjay Prakash, highlighted the importance of community participation, stating: “If the villagers continue to support our Raita Bandhu Project, we will be able to achieve even greater milestones. Sankalpa Rural Development Society is doing remarkable work. Farmers should take full advantage of this initiative, enhance groundwater levels, cultivate better crops, and contribute to the nation’s food security.”
