Pune: Karhati Sarpanch Among Six ‘Water Warriors’ from Maharashtra Invited as Republic Day Guests for Groundwater Management Achievements

Baramati, 24th January 2025: Six ‘Water Warriors’ from Maharashtra, recognized for their outstanding contributions to groundwater management under the Atal Bhujal Yojana, have been invited as special guests to attend the Republic Day parade in Delhi on January 26, 2025.

This announcement was made by Dr. Praveen Kathane, Joint Director and Project Coordinator of the Groundwater Survey and Development Agency. Among the honored guests is Sarpanch Dipali Lonkar from Karhati village in Baramati taluka, Pune district.

The six invitees include:
Dipali Lonkar, Karhati (Pune)
Sudhar Mankar, Jarudi, Tal. Warud (Amravati)
Amol Katkar, Kirksal, Tal. Maan (Satara)
Sunil Garad, Khed (Dharashiv)
Chhayatai Kolekar, Nangole, Tal. Kavathe Mahankal (Sangli)
Sheetal Jhunjare, Harangul (Latur)

Under the Atal Bhujal Yojana, these villages, with the guidance of district geologists and collaborative efforts of villagers, have transformed from drought-prone areas to model water-rich communities. Various initiatives funded by the scheme include the installation of recharge shafts, sprinklers, shade nets, polyhouses, and mulching. Villages also implemented a comprehensive ‘Water Safety Plan’ to ensure sustainable water management.

Additionally, water literacy workshops were held to raise awareness, and advanced tools like rain gauges, piezometers, and water flow meters were installed to monitor water levels. Groundwater information centers were also set up to educate villagers about conservation techniques. Water conservation measures ensured the effective utilization of monsoon water by redirecting it into rivers and reservoirs.

Karhati village in Baramati taluka emerged as a standout performer, earning first place in the Groundwater Rich Village Competition 2022-23. The village received Rs. 1 crore at the state level and Rs. 50 lakh at the district level for its water conservation efforts.

Speaking on the occasion, Dipali Yogesh Lonkar, Sarpanch of Karhati, said, “While serving as Sarpanch, I had the privilege of leading Karhati to win Rs. 1.5 crore under the Atal Bhujal Yojana, thanks to the guidance of Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar and other officials. This milestone is a collective success of our villagers and the relentless efforts of multiple organizations, including the Gram Panchayat, Baramati Environmental Forum of India, Pani Foundation, and various government departments. The Government of India recognizing our efforts and inviting me as a guest for the Republic Day celebrations is a proud moment for all of us.”

The villagers’ success was supported by a joint effort involving the Atal Groundwater Task Force, the Revenue and Agriculture Departments, the Panchayat Samiti, and the District Senior Geologist, Diwakar Dhote, from the Groundwater Survey and Development Authority. Their collaborative guidance and consistent efforts