Debari Agreement

Debari Agreement: A Step towards Sustainable Water Management

In recent years, water scarcity has become a major concern worldwide. With the increasing water demand and the effects of climate change, it has become essential to manage water resources sustainably. One such initiative towards sustainable water management is the Debari Agreement.

The Debari Agreement is a pioneering effort by the state government of Rajasthan, India, towards sustainable water management. The agreement was signed in 2014 between the government, farmers, and a non-governmental organization named Tarun Bharat Sangh. It is a unique agreement where farmers voluntarily agreed to give up their water rights to the government for a fixed period in exchange for various benefits.

The Debari Agreement covers 10 villages in the Alwar district of Rajasthan, which were facing acute water stress. The farmers of these villages agreed to give up their water rights for a period of two years to the government, during which the government would work towards restoring the traditional water harvesting structures in the area. In return, the farmers were provided with various benefits like crop insurance, seed distribution, and technical support for agricultural practices.

The Debari Agreement has been a huge success in the Alwar district. It has led to the restoration of traditional water harvesting structures like ponds, wells, and check dams. It has not only increased the water availability in the area but also helped in recharging the groundwater table. The farmers have also benefited from the agreement as they have received various support measures from the government, which have helped them in improving their agricultural practices.

The Debari Agreement can be replicated in other regions facing water scarcity. It can be a model for sustainable water management, where the government, farmers, and other stakeholders work together towards a common goal. The agreement highlights the importance of community participation, as it was the voluntary decision of the farmers that made the agreement a success.

In conclusion, the Debari Agreement is a step towards sustainable water management. It is a unique initiative where the stakeholders have worked together towards a common goal. It has highlighted the importance of community participation and the need for sustainable water management practices. The success of the Debari Agreement can be replicated in other regions facing water scarcity, and it can be a model for sustainable water management.