EDITOR’S SYNOPSIS
· Ambuja Cements successfully led a comprehensive rural development initiative in Nagaur, Rajasthan, in collaboration with the Village Development Committee to rejuvenate Visnani Talab – a water body in Didiya Kala Village
· The village development committee’s initiatives to meet the specific needs of Didiya Kala Village, included pioneering water management systems, pond deepening, drip irrigation installations, and the establishment of farm ponds.
Bangalore, 11 October 2023: Ambuja Cements, the cement and building material company of the diversified Adani Group, revives a rural oasis as part of its commitment to rural development. In line with this commitment, Ambuja Cements CSR arm has spearheaded a transformative journey in Didiya Kala Village, Nagaur, Rajasthan.
In its tailored initiatives to meet specific needs of the village, Ambuja Cements encompassed a diverse range of activities including the implementation of innovative water management systems such as setting up household Rooftop Rainwater Harvesting Systems (RRWHS), Pond Deepening, Drip Irrigation Systems and the establishment of Farm Ponds. The organization has implemented these innovative water management systems to ensure efficient usage of water, and to secure a sustainable water supply for the community.
At the heart of Didiya Kala village lies the Visnani pond, an essential water source for the community. Ambuja Cements rejuvenation efforts helped this water body see a remarkable increase in its storage capacity within its catchment area.
For any project to sustain, Ambuja Cements always encourages forming People’s Institutions for communities to take ownership of systems and structures in their villages. In a heartwarming turn of events, a group of motivated young villagers, embarked on a mission to revitalise the Visnani pond. They formed the Visnani Talab Vikas Samiti, a formally registered committee under the Rajasthan Societies Act of 1958 with support from Ambuja Cements. Through collective efforts, they collected contributions from each household in the village and government department members, including Bhamashahs from Alva village and the local authorities, amassing a significant fund for renovating the pond.
The pond was beautified with the addition of two gates to the pond and installing a central sculpture, of a woman. This sculpture is a symbol of respect and celebration of the vital role women play in the community, culture, and history. At the same time, Ambuja Cements illuminated the area with lights, dispelling darkness and transforming the Visnani pond into a breathtaking centerpiece of the village’s surroundings.
Ambuja Cements through its innovative CSR initiatives remains committed to its mission of creating positive change in rural communities, with Didiya Kala village serving as a shining example of its transformative journey. This inspiring community-driven effort has not only revived the Visnani Pond but has also reinvigorated the spirit of Didiya Kala village, demonstrating the power of collective action in rural development.
