Jobaaj Stories
Rajendra Singh, widely known as the "Waterman of India," is an environmental activist, water conservationist, and recipient of the prestigious Ramon Magsaysay Award. His visionary approach and grassroots initiatives have made a significant impact, transforming the lives of communities and inspiring environmental protection across the country.
This episode of Jobaaj Stories sheds light on Rajendra Singh's journey as a water conservationist, his contributions, and the recognition he has received for his remarkable work.
Exploring the Early Years of Rajendra Singh’s Career
Rajendra Singh, was born on August 6, 1959 in Dola village, Baghpat, Uttar Pradesh. holds a degree in Ayurvedic medicine and a post-graduate degree in Hindi literature. He began his career in 1980 as a National Service Volunteer, serving in the field of education in Jaipur. Later, in 1975 he joined the Tarun Bharat Sangh (TBS), an organization initially formed to aid fire victims. In 1984, Rajendra Singh assumed leadership of TBS and embarked on his path as a water conservationist.
How Tarun Bharat Sangh is Empowering Local Communities
Tarun Bharat Sangh (TBS), is a non-governmental organization (NGO) committed to water conservation and environmental rejuvenation. The organization aimed to empower local communities by involving them in the decision-making process and fostering a sense of ownership over their water resources. Singh's approach centered around reviving traditional water-harvesting techniques and promoting sustainable agricultural practices.
TBS has been instrumental in constructing over 11,800 water structures and has helped transform more than 1,200 water-deprived villages into water-secure communities.
Reviving Rivers and Water Conservation
Dr. Singh's initiatives have led to the revival of 12 rivers across India, including Arvari, Ruparel, Sarsa, Bhagani, Maheshwara, Sabi, Tibra, Sairni, and Jahazwali in Rajasthan, and Agarni and Mahakali in Maharashtra and Karnataka. Singh's work gained widespread recognition when he successfully revived the Arvari River in Rajasthan, which had been dry for decades. Through community mobilization and the construction of traditional rainwater harvesting structures called johads, Singh and TBS restored the river's flow. This achievement inspired similar initiatives across the country, sparking a movement for water conservation and rejuvenation.
Accolades and Awards
Rajendra Singh's groundbreaking work in water conservation and environmental rejuvenation has earned him numerous accolades. In 2001, he was awarded the Ramon Magsaysay Award, often referred to as the "Asian Nobel Prize," for his exceptional leadership in community-based water resource management. Singh has also received the Stockholm Water Prize, the prestigious Jamnalal Bajaj Award, and the Indira Gandhi Paryavaran Puraskar, among many others.
Dr. Rajendra Singh's dedication to nature and his tireless efforts in water conservation continue to inspire individuals and communities worldwide. His vision for a sustainable future relies on collective action, where communities, governments, and individuals work together to protect and preserve our precious water resources.
Written by Harshita Kumar
Also, Read Jadav Payeng - The Forest Man of India
