Raipur: The agricultural sector serves as the primary source of livelihood for farmers, yet many face challenges due to the absence of irrigation facilities, with tubewells often being a significant issue. To address these concerns, both the central and state governments have launched various schemes to support farmers, and the Bhupesh Baghel government introduced the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Scheme (MGNREGA) to provide financial assistance to farmers.
Previously, regions in the state relied solely on rainwater for irrigation in unirrigated areas. However, MGNREGA is proving to be a pivotal program, as it prioritizes water augmentation projects, significantly benefiting farmers. Traditionally, ponds served as essential water sources for drinking, irrigation, and drainage. Despite the prevalence of modern alternatives like borewells and tubewells, these traditional water sources have not lost their importance. Villagers and panchayats still recognize the value of ponds in rural areas.
Under the leadership of the Bhupesh Baghel government, beneficiaries are expanding their livelihood opportunities by leveraging assets created through MGNREGA. The construction of wells under this scheme has not only provided means for irrigation but has also played a vital role in water conservation and expansion. The success stories emerging from the vigilance and active participation of villagers, coupled with state government schemes, are a testament to the positive impact of these initiatives.
One such success story features Bhagat Singh, a resident of the Panchayat Sargawan in the Udaipur Janpad Panchayat. He is among those benefiting from good construction in the year 2023-24, illustrating how government programs like MGNREGA are transforming lives and livelihoods in rural areas.