Kundam, Jabalpur: Marking the occasion of World Environment Day, a special programme focused on environmental conservation, water resource management, and sustainable rural development was organized in Kundam Block of Jabalpur district. The initiative was conducted under the Gram Saksham Project, implemented by Lok Kalyan Bhumika Samiti (LKBS) with the support of SBI Foundation. The event brought together villagers, farmers, women’s self-help groups, youth, and community stakeholders to raise awareness about environmental protection and encourage collective participation in sustainable development efforts.
World Environment Day serves as a global reminder of the importance of preserving natural resources and taking meaningful action to address environmental challenges. In line with this objective, the programme highlighted various initiatives being undertaken under the Gram Saksham Project to improve ecological sustainability while strengthening rural livelihoods.
Speaking on the occasion, Mr. Swapn Dhar, Managing Director & CEO of SBI Foundation, emphasized the Foundation’s commitment to the holistic and sustainable development of rural communities across India. He stated that environmental protection, water conservation, and natural resource management remain among the key focus areas of the Foundation’s rural development initiatives.
According to Mr. Dhar, the Gram Saksham Project is designed to address multiple dimensions of rural development by combining environmental sustainability with livelihood enhancement. Through strategic interventions in agriculture, water conservation, renewable energy, and income generation, the project aims to build resilient and self-reliant rural communities.
As part of the project, several impactful activities are being implemented in Kundam Block. These include the construction of farm ponds, farm bunding, water conservation structures, plantation drives, promotion of vegetable cultivation, livelihood support through goat rearing, and solar electrification in rural areas. Together, these interventions are creating a positive impact on both the environment and the socio-economic conditions of local communities.
One of the major achievements highlighted during the programme was the construction of farm ponds and water conservation structures. These initiatives have played a crucial role in improving water availability for agricultural activities and enhancing groundwater recharge. In a region where agriculture remains the primary source of livelihood, access to water resources directly contributes to better crop productivity and improved income opportunities for farming families.
Mr. Dhar noted that sustainable water resource management is essential for addressing climate-related challenges and ensuring long-term agricultural sustainability. By conserving rainwater and improving groundwater levels, the project is helping farmers become more resilient to changing weather conditions and water scarcity.
Ms. Rekha Kushwaha, President of Lok Kalyan Bhumika Samiti, shared encouraging outcomes from the environmental initiatives undertaken in the area. She informed participants that farm ponds constructed during the previous year had significantly contributed to improving groundwater levels in several villages. She also highlighted the successful survival of saplings planted during earlier plantation drives.
“Our objective is not merely to plant trees but to ensure their protection and healthy growth,” she said while addressing the gathering. She stressed the importance of community participation in maintaining and nurturing the planted saplings so that the environmental benefits can be sustained for future generations.
Ms. Kushwaha expressed her gratitude to SBI Foundation for supporting initiatives that promote environmental improvement, water conservation, and livelihood enhancement in the region. She acknowledged that the Foundation’s support has enabled the implementation of impactful interventions that are bringing meaningful change to rural communities.
Apart from environmental conservation, the Gram Saksham Project is also focused on strengthening rural livelihoods. Promotion of vegetable cultivation and goat rearing has opened additional income-generating opportunities for families, particularly women and small farmers. These livelihood activities are helping diversify income sources and reduce economic vulnerability among rural households.
Solar electrification initiatives undertaken under the project are further contributing to sustainable development by promoting the use of renewable energy in rural areas. Access to clean energy not only improves the quality of life but also supports productive activities and reduces dependence on conventional energy sources.
Mr. Dhar emphasized that the integrated approach adopted by the Gram Saksham Project is creating long-term benefits for rural communities. Alongside environmental conservation, the project is fostering self-reliance, resilience, and socio-economic empowerment. Positive changes are already being observed in terms of improved income opportunities, better living standards, and enhanced community participation in development activities.
He expressed confidence that local communities would continue to carry these efforts forward and ensure the sustainability of the interventions. Community ownership, he noted, is essential for achieving lasting impact and ensuring that development gains are maintained over time.
The World Environment Day programme concluded with a collective pledge by villagers, farmers, women’s group members, youth, and project stakeholders to protect the environment and nurture the saplings planted in their villages. Participants committed themselves to promoting sustainable practices, conserving natural resources, and contributing actively towards environmental protection.
The event served as a powerful example of how collaborative efforts between community-based organizations, development institutions, and local communities can create meaningful and sustainable change. Through initiatives such as the Gram Saksham Project, SBI Foundation and Lok Kalyan Bhumika Samiti are demonstrating that environmental conservation and rural development can go hand in hand, paving the way for a greener, more prosperous, and resilient future for rural India.
As environmental challenges continue to grow globally, initiatives like these offer valuable lessons in community-driven sustainability and responsible resource management. By empowering local communities and promoting practical solutions, the Gram Saksham Project is making a significant contribution toward building environmentally conscious and economically stronger rural societies.
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