#ClimateResilience | Over half the rural population in Odisha depends on natural resources for food and income, with water as the lifeline. Solving grassroots water challenges is essential for resilient communities and sustainable development.
The 6750 Gram Panchayats, the closest level of governance to 37 million rural people in Odisha, have to be at the forefront of this change.
Gram Vikas’ flagship Water Secure Gram Panchayat (WSGP) programme demonstrates a hyper-local approach where empowered communities and local governments collaborate to address water security.
By focusing on sustainable land use, forest conservation, and innovative water management practices, the programme ensures natural resources security.
Communities are actively involved in mapping water sources, monitoring groundwater levels, and implementing conservation techniques. This participatory approach not only builds local expertise but also fosters a sense of ownership and responsibility towards natural resources.
The programme's emphasis on afforestation and land restoration helps mitigate climate change effects, creating a more resilient environment.
The WSGP programme's efforts align with seven Sustainable Development Goals, including Clean Water and Sanitation (SDG 6), Climate Action (SDG 13), and Life on Land (SDG 15).
By integrating environmental sustainability with socio-economic development, the programme is paving the way for a sustainable and prosperous future for Odisha's rural communities.
#ClimateAction #SustainableDevelopment #Odisha #CommunityEmpowerment #WaterConservation
