Watershed Mahotsav Celebrated at Micro Watershed Chemday (WDC–03 Kharu Project) and Micro Watershed Saspol (WDC–06)
In resonance with the Pan-India celebration of the Watershed Mahotsav, vibrant events were organised at Micro Watershed Chemday under the Kharu Project WDC–03 and Micro Watershed Saspol under Project WDC–06, marked by great enthusiasm and active community participation.
The Mahotsav at Saspol was graced by SDM Saspol, Shri Gurmet, as the Chief Guest, accompanied by the Tehsildar Saspol, officials of the Watershed Department, Chairmen/Secretaries of the Micro Watershed Committees, Nambardar, religious head, SHG and UG members, teachers, students of the Higher Secondary School, and local community members.
Similarly, at Kharu, officers, the Nambardar, SHGs, UGs, and local participants were present in good numbers, reflecting widespread community involvement.
During the programme, the Nambardar and Chairmen/Secretaries expressed heartfelt appreciation to the Watershed Department for implementing a range of transformative interventions. They highlighted the significant NRM and livelihood works executed under both projects, including:
• Construction of water harvesting tanks
• Compound walling
• L-bench terracing to convert wasteland into cultivable land through plantation
• Spring rejuvenation works
• Construction of I-khuls, the primary irrigation channels
• Establishment of polycarbonate greenhouses
• Food processing unit for SHGs at Saspol
• Handloom weaving and food processing unit at Chemday
• Free distribution of high-yielding vegetable (pea) seeds and fodder seeds for crop diversification
• Free distribution of agriculture tool kits to all households under the Micro Watersheds of both Saspol and Kharu projects
The SDM Saspol and Tehsildar Saspol commended the Watershed Department for the visible developmental progress in Saspol. Likewise, officers and the Nambardar at Kharu appreciated the department’s efforts and extended gratitude to the Government of India for supporting the watershed initiatives in Ladakh.
A quiz competition on the theme “Khet ka paani khet mein, gaon ka paani gaon mein” was presented by students of the Higher Secondary School, spreading awareness on local water conservation and responsible resource use.
The Project Officer/Nodal Officer, Watershed Department IWMP Leh, Smt. Shenaz, shared a concise overview of the works completed under the NRM, Production, and Livelihood components, emphasising the importance of Janbhagidari for the upkeep and sustainability of the assets created.
Community members expressed their satisfaction with the ongoing interventions and conveyed hope for continued developmental activities in the future. Prizes and refreshments were also distributed to the participating students.
The Mahotsav concluded with the on-spot Lokarpan of completed works, formally handing over ownership to the community, followed by the Bhumi Pujan of new works performed by the religious head, Lamaji, marking the commencement of future initiatives.
