Rainwater harvesting is a method to capture and store rainwater for various uses. It is also used to recharge groundwater aquifers. It is a low-cost and eco-friendly technique for preserving every drop of water by guiding the rainwater to borewells, pits and wells. Rainwater harvesting increases water availability, checks the declining groundwater table, improves the quality of groundwater through the dilution of contaminants, like fluoride and nitrates, prevents soil erosion, and flooding and arrests saltwater intrusion in coastal areas if used to recharge aquifers.

Which programmes have taken up constructions of various water-harvesting structures such as percolation tanks, dug-out ponds (Johad), check dams, etc., through people’s participation?

Neeru-Meeru and Arvary Pani Sansad

Neeru-Meeru (Water and You) programme (in Andhra Pradesh) and Arvary Pani Sansad (in Alwar, Rajasthan) have taken up constructions of various water-harvesting structures such as percolation tanks, dug-out ponds (Johad), check dams, etc., through people’s participation.