Community-Led Water Budgeting for Sustainable Resource Management

On 29th May 2025, the Green Rural Economy (GRE) initiative hosted a GRE Clinic focused on the theme “Community-led Water Budgeting for Sustainable Resource Management.” The session brought together a mix of technical experts, grassroots organizations, and civil society participants to exchange insights and address key challenges in groundwater conservation and water resource planning.

Main Questions and Responses

Groundwater Depletion in Siltry Region
The experts advised beginning with a geographical assessment of the area to understand the root causes of groundwater depletion. Once the causes are mapped, interventions such as recharge pits or other aquifer-based techniques (especially for hard rock aquifers) can be implemented. They stressed the importance of understanding recharge and discharge zones.

Main Cause of Groundwater Depletion
A key insight shared was that mono-cropping and loss of soil carbon are major contributors to declining groundwater levels. Depleted soil health further affects the water table.

Identifying Recharge and Discharge Zones
Experts highlighted the need for both supply-side (e.g., recharge structures) and demand-side interventions (e.g., improved land management). They suggested mapping recharge zones using traditional knowledge and modern tools.

Water Scarcity in Jaisalmer and impact on extracting Ground water.
The experts suggested referring to the Central Arid Zone Research Institute (CAZRI), Jodhpur, which has conducted in-depth studies on arid water management.

Water Conservation in Hilly Regions
The response emphasized adopting a watershed-based approach using interventions like contour bunds, trenches, loose boulder dams, and gully plugs to retain water and enhance recharge in sloped areas.