About the project

Organization

For Tarun Bharat Sangh (TBS), water is an essential force for ecological restoration, socio-economic stability, and climate resilience. Their work in Rajasthan, Haryana, and Maharashtra focuses on reviving groundwater and rivers through traditional, community-led water conservation techniques. 

Structures like Johads, Pokhars, and Taals, have significantly raised groundwater levels, rejuvenated rivers, and mitigated droughts and floods. Tarun Bharat Sangh  promotes climate adaptation through sustainable agriculture, carbon sequestration, and resilient livelihoods. Their grassroots mobilization organizes over 500 farmer dialogues, youth programs, and women’s educational visits annually.

Impact

Tarun Bharat Sangh benefits 150,000 families from marginalized and ultra-poor communities. The 15,000+ traditional water harvesting structures ensure year-round water availability and reduce women’s labor. Their efforts have revived 14 rivers including Shairni, Tewar, and Agrani, which set a global precedent, doubled farmers' incomes, and improved livestock productivity. Over 10,000 “Water Warriors” sustain these initiatives, driving socioeconomic stability and reducing displacement. Embracing non-violence, more than 100 former bandits from Chambal now engage in agriculture, contributing to a peaceful society. In Mewat, women well-being has improved as they lead stress-free lives with reliable water access.

Community Engagement and Resilience

Tarun Bharat Sangh fosters trust through grassroots engagement, transparency, and education. Communities co-develop water projects, ensuring long-term ownership. Inter-village river basin parliaments sustain river restoration efforts, fostering resilience against erratic monsoons.

Policy Influence:

Tarun Bharat Sangh  has influenced national and state policies on water conservation, leading to:

  • Maharashtra’s “Aao Nadi Ko Jaane” river revitalization initiative.
  • Supreme Court action against illegal mining in the Aravalli Hills.
  • Government-funded rainwater harvesting programs like Catch the Rain.
  • Inclusion of water conservation in school curricula.
  • Global recognition of water’s role in climate adaptation.

Project Representative

Dr. Rajendra Singh
Dr. Rajendra Singh

Dr. Rajendra Singh, "Waterman of India," leads Tarun Bharat Sangh since its inception. Prestigious awards include the Ramon Magsaysay Award (2001) and the Stockholm Water Prize (2015). Appointed as the first Professor of Practice in Community Leadership in Environmental Design at Anant National University, he continues to champion the water conservation movement.

Photo Gallery

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Once struggling with seasonal scarcity, the river now sustains life, replenishes groundwater, and supports local communities. Copyright:TBS

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Once dry and unproductive, this land now flourishes with green and golden fields. Copyright:TBS

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A proud moment celebrating the unsung heroes of water conservation! Dedicated individuals are the former bandits who now left the guns and become farmers after the water is available for their agriculture. Copyright:TBS

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Through conservation efforts, natural water flows of Rivulet Nehro have been restored, ensuring sustainable water access and ecological balance for future generations. Copyright:TBS

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A farmer stands proudly in his lush mustard field, the power of sustainable water management and efficient farming practices. Copyright:TBS

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Chabutara Wali Johad in Gopal Pura village stands as a power of community-led water conservation, being the first structure built by Rajendra Singh in 1985.Copyright:TBS


 


 

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United for Water: Villagers, and local leaders come together with Tarun Bharat Sangh for community contribution to restore water resources. Copyright:TBS

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