Under the Chhattisgarh government’s welfare scheme, the Jal Jeevan Mission, residents of the forest village Tupenga in Gariaband district now have access to clean drinking water. Previously dependent on Jharia water, the villagers now have tap water connections in every home, freeing them from the long-standing ordeal of fetching water from distant sources.
The Impact of Jal Jeevan Mission
In the dependent village of Mohda, Tupenga, every household now enjoys tap water connections. This development has particularly benefited women, who no longer need to walk long distances to fetch water. The convenience of having water at home has brought significant relief and comfort to the villagers, who have expressed their gratitude towards the government for this initiative.
A Village Transformed
Tupenga, nestled among fields and forests, comprises 12 homes. Before the implementation of the Jal Jeevan Mission, villagers relied solely on a government hand pump and Jharia for their water needs. The village is predominantly inhabited by the tribal community, whose primary sources of income are forest produce collection and agriculture. Fetching water required leaving other tasks aside and walking long distances, facing challenges in all seasons—summer, winter, and monsoon. This also adversely affected their health.
Health and Convenience Benefits
Jaymati, a resident, shares how they used to be exhausted from fetching water from afar. With taps installed in every home, there has been a noticeable improvement in health and physical efficiency. Residents now have more time to spend with their children and engage in other productive activities.
Sustainable Water Use and Community Impact
Villagers like Shrimotin, Romin, and Jaymati have decided to use the saved water for cultivating vegetables in their backyards. They aim to set a positive example and encourage other villagers to make the best use of and conserve water. This initiative has inspired a collective commitment to water conservation and sustainable use within the community.
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Positive Takeway
The Jal Jeevan Mission has transformed the lives of Tupenga’s residents, providing them with clean drinking water at their doorstep. This initiative has not only improved their health and convenience but also fostered a sense of community responsibility towards sustainable water use. The success of this mission stands as a testament to the effectiveness of government welfare schemes in bringing tangible benefits to rural populations.
