At just 17 and after leaving school, Laxman Singh began reviving a long-abandoned pond in Laporiya, Rajasthan. His community-led efforts grew into an innovative water conservation method that now irrigates 1,800 acres and supports livelihoods across the region.
- Revived pond Anna Sagar irrigates 1,800 acres
- Chauka system slows runoff, improves soil moisture
- Method spread to dozens of villages in Rajasthan
What happened
In 1977, Laporiya, a village in Rajasthan, was severely affected by drought. Many farmers lost their livelihoods, children stopped attending school, and families migrated in search of better prospects. At just 17 years old, Laxman Singh left school and took the initiative to revive an old bund that had been dry for nearly three decades. He gathered support from friends and the local community, and within weeks, dozens of villagers joined the restoration effort.
Their hard work paid off when the repaired bund—named Anna Sagar—filled with rainwater within two months. This new water source brought life back to the village, supplying irrigation to around 1,800 acres of farmland by 1984. Encouraged by this success, Singh and the villagers began restoring more ponds and lakes, gradually improving water availability and agricultural prospects.
Why it feels good
Laporiya is a largely agro-pastoral community, where livestock plays a crucial role in sustaining families. However, degraded pasturelands threatened these livelihoods. Singh responded by creating the Chauka system, an innovative method using square earthen bunds on pastureland to slow water runoff, hold soil moisture, and recharge groundwater. This approach not only conserved water but also helped regenerate grazing lands.
The rejuvenated pastures improved fodder availability for livestock, strengthening the cycle of farming, cattle rearing, and natural fertilization. As a result, farmers gained the ability to cultivate crops during multiple seasons, and rural incomes from dairy and agriculture improved. The success inspired other villages in Rajasthan to adopt this integrated conservation model, showcasing how practical, community-led solutions can bring sustainable change.
What to enjoy or watch next
Singh founded the Gramin Vikas Navyuvak Mandal Laporiya (GVNML) to organize ongoing conservation and watershed development efforts. The Chauka system has since extended beyond Laporiya, spreading to numerous villages across Rajasthan and influencing regional water management practices. These community-driven efforts highlight scalable solutions for drought-prone regions worldwide.
For those interested in inspiring stories of rural resilience and environmental innovation, following the developments in Rajasthan’s water conservation initiatives offers valuable insights. The transformative power of grassroots action led by individuals like Laxman Singh illustrates how localized efforts can foster widespread ecological and economic benefits.