Jal-Jeevan-Hariyali Mission: The Crucial Role of Technology and MGNREGA

“Technology is a tool, and like any tool, its impact is determined by the hand that wields it.” – Arthur C. Clarke
Introduction:
The Jal Jeevan Hariyali Mission, a visionary initiative undertaken in Bihar, aims to ensure efficient water resource management and afforestation across the state. This mission not only recognizes the importance of water conservation and reforestation but also embraces technology-driven solutions to address the challenges arising from these vital domains. To kick start this transformative mission, the government of Bihar adopted a Geographic Information System (GIS) map, combined with the involvement of MGNREGA officials and an innovative app, to verify, update, and utilize crucial data. By utilizing this integrated data management approach, Bihar has begun its journey towards sustainable development and a greener future.

GIS Mapping: A Foundation for Integrated Data Management
The fundamental step in the Jal-Jeevan-Hariyali Mission was the creation of a comprehensive GIS map of Bihar. The GIS map enabled the accurate mapping of water bodies, land usage, forest cover, and other critical data, offering a holistic view of the state’s resources. It provided a reliable foundation that would guide subsequent initiatives aimed at water conservation and afforestation. The GIS map allowed decision-makers and officials to identify areas where intervention was needed the most.

Involvement of Rural Development Officials: Ensuring Accuracy and Validity
To ensure data accuracy and validity, the government of Bihar involved MGNREGA officials in the verification and incorporation of data into the GIS map. These officials possessed local knowledge and expertise, making them invaluable assets for the mission’s success. With the integration of MGNREGA officials, data collection became a collaborative effort, strengthening community engagement and ownership of the mission. The involvement of these officials guaranteed that the data incorporated into the GIS map was reliable, reflecting ground-level realities and needs accurately. NRM component of MGNREGA already encompasses common activities as of JJH. As per act minimum 65% expenditure is expected recent circular has omitted some proposed status that’s why one is witnessing decline in percentage of expenditure of NRM works. But 59 works still there which are of NRM nature. Thus MGNREGA by its spirit and action is in accordance with JJH. In fact land development works are being executed with having end status of agriculture yield

Data Collection through an Innovative Mobile App
To streamline and expedite data collection, a user-friendly mobile app was introduced, empowering MGNREGA officials to input verified and corrected data directly into the GIS map. The app enabled real-time data collection, eliminating delays and potential errors associated with traditional paper-based methods. Furthermore, it facilitated seamless communication between officials and stakeholders, ensuring that data updates were synchronized and accessible to all.

Utilising Verified Data for Transformational Works
With the integration of verified and corrected data, the Bihar government initiated transformative works aimed at water resource management and afforestation. The GIS map served as a valuable resource for identifying priority areas for groundwater recharge, soil and moisture conservation, and watershed management projects. The accurate representation of forest cover facilitated targeted afforestation initiatives, ensuring that saplings were planted in areas that would yield the most significant environmental benefits. By leveraging the verified data, the government has been able to implement targeted and effective programs, driving significant positive change across the state.

MGNREGA has played a vital role in supporting and amplifying the impact of the Jal-Jeevan-Hariyali campaign in several ways:
Employment Generation: MGNREGA acts as a catalyst, providing employment opportunities for individuals in rural areas engaged in water conservation activities. The convergence of MGNREGA and the Jal-Jeevan-Hariyali campaign has created a synergistic relationship, channeling funds and labour towards the larger objective of water conservation.
Building Water Infrastructure: The campaign complements MGNREGA by utilizing the workforce generated under the program to create and restore water infrastructure. This includes desilting and renovating traditional water bodies like ponds, tanks, and lakes, reviving rivers, and constructing check dams and percolation tanks. Such infrastructure improvements strengthen the overall water conservation efforts.
Awareness and Community Engagement: Both the Jal-Jeevan-Hariyali campaign and MGNREGA emphasize community participation and awareness. Alongside the work carried out under MGNREGA, the campaign conducts awareness programs, motivating villagers to actively contribute to water conservation activities. This integrated approach ensures sustainability and strengthens community bonds, leading to long-term positive change.
Livelihood Diversification: The convergence of the campaign and MGNREGA enables rural households to diversify their livelihood options. While participating in water conservation activities, communities gain skills and knowledge related to soil and water management. This empowers individuals to explore alternative income-generating activities related to agriculture, horticulture, and pisciculture, enhancing rural prosperity.

The Jal Jeevan Hariyali Mission in Bihar stands as a remarkable example of how integrated data management, driven by GIS mapping and the involvement of MGNREGA officials, can catalyse sustainable development. By utilizing technology and harnessing ground-level expertise, the Bihar government has set in motion a green revolution that will undoubtedly yield long-lasting benefits for both the environment and its residents. The success of this mission not only underscores the crucial role of data in effective decision-making but also serves as an inspiring model for other regions seeking to embark on similar transformative endeavours.