Sikkim: Water Yatra campaign promotes conservation and sustainable living in Namchi

The Water Yatra campaign under the Watershed Development Component of Pradhan Mantri Krishi Sinchayee Yojana 2.0 (WDC-PMKSY 2.0) was successfully organized at Nandugoan (Poklok GPK), Namchi. The event, spearheaded by the Project Implementing Agency under the State Level Nodal Agency of the Forest and Environment Department, aimed to raise awareness about water conservation, environmental preservation, and sustainable living practices.

The campaign was graced by Anjeeta Rajalim, Zilla Adhyaksha Namchi, as the chief guest. She was accompanied by Anuka Sharma, Panchayat President of 38 Poklok GPU, Narad Sharma, Deputy Director of Education Nandugoan Block, Mukesh Dahal, BDO Nandugoan Namchi, Marmit Lepcha, DFO Namchi, Sabi Gadaily, ACF Namchi, along with other dignitaries, panchayat members, forest officials, and local residents.

During her address, Anjeeta Rajalim highlighted the objectives of WDC-PMKSY 2.0 and encouraged collective efforts to ensure the success of the project. She also elaborated on the Jal Jeevan Mission and the Sikkim government's commitment to improving water accessibility. She emphasized the pressing issue of water scarcity and its impact on the community, urging residents to actively participate in conservation efforts.

Marmit Lepcha, DFO Namchi, underscored the significance of the Watershed Yatra campaign, reiterating Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang’s vision: "Pani Jivan Ho, Pani Jogawna Nai Jivan Ani Bhawisha Jogawnu Ho" (Water is life; conserving water is securing life and the future). She stressed the importance of watershed management in enhancing community well-being and ecological balance.

Zilla Panchayat member Bishnu Maya Sharma from 38 Poklok GPU called upon farmers to actively engage in the project for its maximum benefits. She applauded the Forest Department’s initiatives and hoped for sustained collaboration to address water scarcity and promote environmental sustainability.

A significant highlight of the event was the ceremonial Bhoomi Poojan, performed by Ms. Anjeeta Rajalim, marking the inauguration of a rooftop rainwater harvesting system at Nandugoan Sr. Sec School. Implemented under WDC-PMKSY 2.0 by the Forest and Environment Department, this system aims to promote efficient water resource management.

The campaign also featured a swearing-in ceremony followed by a rally from Nandugoan Sr. Sec School to Poklok GPK, where participants marched with the slogan "Pani Jivan Ho, Pani Jogawna Nai Jivan Ani Bhawisha Jogawnu Ho." A skit titled "Jamen Ani Pani Ko Raksha – Bhawishya Ko Surakshya" was performed by the Social Forestry staff, highlighting the importance of soil and water conservation. A quiz competition further engaged attendees, fostering an interactive learning experience.

Adding to the event’s significance, a Lokarpan video screening showcased the Watershed Yatra film, its theme song, and various watershed development works. Another screening featured awardee farmers’ success stories, produced by the Department of Land Resources, Ministry of Rural Development, Government of India.

In recognition of their contributions to watershed management, certificates of felicitation were awarded to progressive farmers from various Gram Panchayat Units (GPUs), namely:

Bishnu Kumar Rai – Assangthang GPU

Padam Bahadur Kami – Tinik Chisopani GPU

Rup Lal Gurung – Tinik Chisopani GPU

Balindra Rai – Poklok GPU

Bikram Rai – Poklok GPU

Moreover, Palden Lepcha from Denchung was honored with a token of appreciation for his remarkable painting of a watershed landscape at Nandugoan Poklok GPK.