Nitin Bassi,M. Dinesh Kumar, Institute for Resource Analysis and Policy (IRAP), Senior Researcher, bassi43@gmail.com
ABSTRACT
Western Rajasthan in India is characterized by very low mean annual rainfall (100-400 mm), high inter-annual variability in rainfall & stream flows, and poor quality soils & groundwater. Under such conditions, water resources are managed on sustainable basis to ensure water for crop production and domestic water security to tide over drought impacts. The Ambuja Cement Foundation (ACF) is engaged in water management activities in this region. This paper focus on the interventions carried out by ACF for rehabilitation of khadin (traditional run-off farming system) and nadi (village pond) in the districts of Pali and Nagaur. Analysis indicates that these interventions have led to enhanced water storage in the traditional water systems during normal and high rainfall years, and increased availability of good quality water for domestic needs throughout. The pronounced impacts are on rural livelihoods as evident from increased area under cultivation, and enhanced crop yield & outputs.
Key Words: Western Rajasthan, Khadin, Village Ponds