Farmers, revered as “Annadata,” are the backbone of India’s economy, toiling tirelessly to feed a nation of over a billion people. Yet, despite their critical role, most farmers face the harsh realities of water scarcity, especially in regions like Rajasthan, where drought has long been a constant companion. Suva Ram, a 70-year-old farmer from Rajpura village, Sikar, Rajasthan, has lived through these challenges for decades. Today, his story is one of hope and renewal, made possible by implementing a groundwater augmentation project.
A History of Struggle
Suva Ram has lived in Rajpura since 1955, witnessing the village’s long history of struggle with water scarcity. “When I first came here, water was insufficient,” he recalls, his voice carrying the weight of decades of struggle. The village’s groundwater had been depleted by years of drought, and what little water remained was often contaminated with fluoride, leading to health problems that further burdened the community. Farming, the lifeblood of Rajpura, had become a gamble against nature, with poor yields barely sustaining families through the year.
The Turning Point
The turning point for Suva Ram and his community came with a transformative water stewardship initiative that aimed to tackle the region’s severe water scarcity. In collaboration with Social Action for Rural Advancement (SARA), a grassroots NGO, Anandana, the Coca-Cola India Foundation, spearheaded efforts to construct check dams and ponds. These vital structures were designed not only to replenish groundwater but also to ensure safe, fluoride-free water for the villagers. For Suva Ram, the check dam near Rajpura became nothing short of a lifeline, revitalizing his farm and his hope for the future.
“As soon as the check dam was constructed and water was recharged, our irrigation facilities improved,” Suva Ram says, his voice filled with relief after years of hardship. The dam not only stabilized water levels but also ensured that the water was safe for use. Suva Ram’s farm, once struggling to yield enough to support his family, began to thrive.
From Survival to Innovation
Within a 20-kilometer radius of the check dam, farmers like Suva Ram, who once struggled to produce even half a yield, were now enjoying full harvests. “Earlier, our fields were struggling, but since this initiative, we have experienced happiness and well-being,” he shares, reflecting the collective optimism stemming from the project. With a reliable source of water, Suva Ram’s life transformed for the better. Farm ponds, once dry and barren, were now full, supporting a diverse range of crops. “It is because of the water that crops are growing. Our farm ponds, about 10-15 of them, are now full,” he explains.
As his farm prospered, the reliable water access gave Suvaram the confidence to think bigger. The thought of putting in a larger, more efficient farming unit came to mind. The increased water availability allowed him to grow not just traditional crops but also to explore new ventures. Buoyed by the success of his farm’s improved water access, he decided to take an ambitious step—building a polyhouse a climate-controlled structure that allows for year-round cultivation of high-value crops. This modern farming unit, supported by both government grants and his own investments, represented a leap from subsistence farming to commercial agriculture.
The polyhouse, equipped with a state-of-the-art drip irrigation system, revolutionized Suva Ram’s farming practices. This controlled environment uses only 10% of the water that traditional irrigation methods require, making it both environmentally sustainable and economically profitable. Within this innovative structure, Suva Ram now cultivates cucumbers and other high-value vegetables, anticipating an annual income of 24 lakhs from cucumber cultivation alone. “My income has increased from 25% to 80%. Agricultural growth hasn’t just doubled; it has multiplied by 100,” he shares, his pride evident.
Today, Suva Ram grows a variety of vegetables and is even venturing into cultivating sandalwood and lemon trees. He has recently planted sandalwood trees and envisions a diverse farm that could support mangoes and other crops, increasing resilience to climate challenges. “Now that we have good water and electricity, we are planting sandalwood trees. In the future, we plan to plant mango and lemon,” Suva Ram says, filled with pride and hope.
Reviving the Community
“The SARA organization helped in constructing this dam, and Coca-Cola India provided the funding,” Suva Ram notes, expressing deep gratitude for the support that made this transformation possible. The check dam has brought a sense of security to his life and has ensured that his children and grandchildren will have a more stable and prosperous future. “This yojana is such that it is very beneficial for the future, especially for the rights of farmers,” he emphasizes, aware of the long-term impact this project will have on his family’s legacy.
Suva Ram’s journey exemplifies the profound impact that focused, sustainable initiatives can have on transforming lives. His story highlights the crucial role of partnerships among corporations, NGOs, and local governments in addressing critical issues like water scarcity. It serves as a beacon of hope for rural communities across India, demonstrating that with the right resources and support, even the most challenging circumstances can be overcome.
As Suva Ram reflects on the changes in his life, he speaks with a deep sense of gratitude and hope for the future. “Where there is water, there is life. Without water, nothing can exist,” he says, his words carrying the wisdom of a man who has seen both hardship and renewal. Today, Rajpura is not just surviving; it is thriving. And for Suva Ram, this renewal means that his family—and future generations—will continue to prosper, building on the foundation of water and hope that has been laid. “We extend our heartfelt thanks to you, and we encourage you to continue your efforts. We will keep supporting you,” he says. Through continued efforts, we can ensure that the story of Rajpura is not just an isolated success, but a model for sustainable development across the country.
